Matt Lasley | News-Gazette
A 16-year-old with Down syndrome, David England (Right), was presented a helmet naming him “Chief of Inspiration” by Leitchfield firefighter Andrew Hale (Left) during a ceremony held at Grayson County High School on Thursday, May 9.
A 16-year-old with Down syndrome, David England, was presented a helmet naming him “Chief of Inspiration” by Leitchfield firefighter Andrew Hale during a ceremony held at Grayson County High School on Thursday, May 9.
Hale said after a recent farm machinery safety class at GCHS, in which Hale participated, he was approached by England, who inspired Hale to “do something good for him.”
Hale said he was so inspired by England’s gesture that he wanted to show his appreciation in some way and decided to have a fire helmet prepared for England.
The helmet reads “Chief of Inspiration” on the front and was prepared by Brian’s Signs and Auto Graphics in Leitchfield.
England’s helmet accompanied Hale through several house fires and was baptized and repainted with England’s birthday (629) as the helmet number.
In response to receiving his helmet, David excitedly said, “Thanks! I’m a fireman!”
During the ceremony, Hale also discussed the importance of fire safety and said his role as a firefighter is often a difficult and thankless job, but “[England] reminded me why I do what I do.”
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