Auburn, Al. (July 3, 2025) – Piedmont Columbus Regional has named Joshua Datnoff, Andrew Barber, Kelvin Maloy, Matthew Thompson, Dawson Locklier, Charlsie Little, Catherine Youngblood, Miles Ballard, Jonas Williamson, Griffin Brown, Spencer MaGill and Garrett Kemp with Auburn Fire and Communications the organization’s First Friday Heroes for the month of July.

A paralyzed woman was rescued from her burning home, thanks to the quick actions of Auburn firefighters and friends who managed to call for help. The fire broke out at a home on Talbert Drive. Thick, black smoke and flames made it impossible for neighbors to reach the trapped woman inside. Auburn fire crews responded swiftly to the scene, made entry, located the woman and brought her to safety. She was conscious when pulled from the home. A neighbor said she was gasping and having a hard time breathing. The woman was transported to the hospital for evaluation.

A ceremony with them and hospital leadership will be held on July 11 at 9 a.m. CT at Fire Station 1 on E Magnolia Avenue in Auburn to commend them for their response. Their story is also featured throughout the hospital on commemorative posters and Piedmont Columbus Regional’s social media pages.

Piedmont Columbus Regional created the First Friday Hero program in 2016 to recognize first responders each month who have gone above and beyond the call of duty.

“Their line of work is often a thankless job, and we want to make the community aware of what our local do to make the Chattahoochee Valley a safer place,” said Piedmont Columbus Regional CEO Scott Hill.