By SHERRY DIGMON
News Publisher
You might say, “He’s a chip off the ol’ block.” Or you might say “The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.” Either one applies. Chris McGhee, son of former Atmore Fire Chief Gerry McGhee, was sworn in as Poarch Creek Indian fire chief in an installation ceremony Monday, January 27.
Chris McGhee is only the second fire chief in the history of the PCI Fire Department. (Ronnie Jackson was the first fire chief.) Dozens of fellow firefighters from across the area, co-workers, family members and friends attended the ceremony and luncheon that followed.
Chaz McGhee pinned the badge on his dad. Judge Joe Brogden swore Chris McGhee in as Gerry McGhee held the Bible.
PCI Tribal Chair and CEO Stephanie Bryan began the ceremony with remarks and a prayer.
In her prayer, she said, “We are thankful for Chris and his success … We are thankful for every first responder.”
She talked about Chris’s carrying on the legacy of his father and the sacrifices their family has endured.
“This is a proud moment for us,” Bryan said. “This is the second pinning is six months for tribal members.” Chris Rutherford was sworn in as PCI police chief in October.
To Chris McGhee, Bryan said, “Look to God first. We must always give Him the praise and the glory.”
She concluded by saying that as chairman and CEO, she never dreamed the Tribe would be where they are today.
Director of Emergency Management Services April Sells said the “event is the result of the struggle of our people.” She recognized former Tribal Chairman Eddie Tullis, who was in attendance with his wife Mary Jane, for his role in gaining federal sovereignty for the Tribe.
“Chris is only the second fire chief for the Poarch Creek Indian Fire Department,” Sells said. “We work for our families. This community is our family.”
When he began his remarks, Chris McGhee said he might get emotional … and he did, sometimes taking a few moments to compose himself.
“I would be held accountable if I did not give credit to God,” he said.
He quoted Matthew 6:33: But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
“Chris is not righteous. I have been made righteous through the blood of Christ,” Chris said.
He expressed his heartfelt gratitude to family, friends and co-workers.
To members of the fire department, he said, “You are the backbone of this operation.”
As mentioned, Chris is the son of Gerry McGhee who was Atmore’s fire chief for 17 years. Chris’s mom is Susie McGhee, a retired nurse from Atmore Community Hospital. In addition to Chaz, Chris’ daughter Macie and son Tyler also stood with their dad.