Hamilton County 911 Operator Recognized With First Responder Hero Award

HAMILTON COUNTY, TN. (WDEF) — A Hamilton County 911 dispatcher is being recognized for nearly two decades of dedication to public safety.

Trey Buffington, who has worked as a dispatcher since 2009, is the latest recipient of the News 12 First Responder Hero Award.

Although he says he “lucked into” the position, his commitment to serving the community began much earlier. At 18 years old, he joined a local fire and rescue department, spending years responding to emergencies before making the transition to emergency communications.

He says becoming a dispatcher allowed him to continue helping people while spending more time with his family.

“Instead of running into the events, now we’re here on the telephone getting as much information as we can to make sure our responders are going into a safe scene,” Trey said.

Dispatching requires a different approach than working in the field. Trey says emergency communicators must remain calm, gather critical information, and provide instructions while first responders are on the way.

He also encourages the public to know their exact location before calling 911.

“If you’re inside Hamilton Place Mall, know exactly where you are,” he said. “Know the store or restaurant you’re close to.”

Trey says the job often means helping people through some of the most difficult moments of their lives.

One call that remains especially memorable happened earlier this year, when a man called 911 because his wife had gone into labor in their driveway. Within minutes, a healthy baby girl was born.

As he accepted the News 12 First Responder Hero Award, Trey thanked his family for supporting him throughout his 17 years in emergency communications.

“I didn’t expect this award,” he said. “I’m very appreciative and I’m going to keep up the good work.”