Hamilton, Ga. (March 7, 2025) – Piedmont Columbus Regional has named Officer Phillip Nolin of the Hamilton Police Department the organization’s First Friday Hero for the month of March.

A driver pulled up to the Hamilton Police Department’s headquarters, saying his male passenger was having difficulty breathing. Officer Nolin started CPR and successfully restored his heartbeat and unassisted breathing as a call went out for an ambulance. EMS arrived soon after and took over care, transporting him to the hospital.

The coordinated response and teamwork played a significant role in saving his life, but Officer Nolin's quick actions and response were essential. The patient ultimately passed away a week later, but the man’s family was able to say their goodbyes because of Officer Nolin’s intervention. We would additionally like to thank Eric Weiss and Michael Brown Jr., of the Hamilton Police Department; Blake Cooper, Ben Hood and Ashley Spells of the Hamilton Fire Department; Chad Dallas, David Bolen and Jim Waites of Harris County EMS for their valued assistance.

A ceremony with Nolin, his colleagues and hospital leadership was held Monday, March 10, at 5 p.m. at Hamilton City Hall to commend him for his response. His 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.