Our QDR Hometown Hero of the Week is Will Crabtree, a firefighter in Durham!
His nominator said:
“In the early morning hours of October 8, Will Crabtree entered a building with the Durham Fire Department. As Will and his fellow firefighters searched for people inside, the roof collapsed. Will was injured in the line of duty, suffering a broken foot, along with the emotional trauma of witnessing this tragedy. Another firefighter was injured, and another tragically lost his life.
After being transported to the hospital, treated, and released, Will returned to the scene of the accident, putting his own pain aside. Without concern for himself, Will returned to honor his fallen brother as he was carried from the scene. Will’s dedication, selflessness, and caring spirit are why I am nominating him for Hometown Hero.
As Will’s fourth-grade teacher, I saw these same qualities in him throughout the school year. All those years ago, Will was always there to help his classmates, cheer them on, and offer encouragement. He consistently put others before himself, demonstrating a kindness and compassion that left a lasting impression on me.
Will has chosen a career dedicated to serving others, and he continues to demonstrate the same selfless spirit I remember from the little guy in our classroom. His courage in the face of tragedy, his compassion for his fellow firefighters, and his willingness to put others before himself exemplify what it truly means to be a hometown hero. I am incredibly proud of Will and cannot think of anyone more deserving of this recognition.”
Will, as a token of our appreciation, we’re sending you a $50 gift card to Smithfield’s Chicken ‘N Bar-B-Q to thank you for all you do!