Monroe, Ga. (Aug. 1, 2025) – Piedmont Walton Hospital is proud to recognize Corporal Jeffrey Barnes and Officer David Dunn of the Social Circle Police Department as the next First Friday Heroes for their extraordinary courage and quick action that saved a life during a devastating house fire.
Around 10:30 p.m. on the night of Jan. 6, Officers Barnes and Dunn were dispatched to assist the Social Circle Fire Department at a residence following reports of smoke. As they arrived on scene, they instantly realized that the entire home was engulfed in fire and alerted the in-route rescue teams of the situation. As they waited for the fire department to arrive, they were informed by neighbors that the resident of the home was trapped inside the building.
Without hesitation and with complete disregard for their own safety, Barnes kicked in the front door and initiated a search for the resident. Despite being hampered by intense flames and thick smoke that significantly reduced visibility, both officers continued into the home guided by the man’s screams. They finally found the resident who had collapsed and whose clothing was on fire.
Together, Barnes and Dunn pulled the man from the home and worked quickly to extinguish the flames on his clothing before beginning life-saving measures such as CPR. They continued their efforts until other first responders arrived and relieved them. Because of their bravery and quick action, the man survived.
“The actions taken by these two Social Circle officers, who risked their own lives to save a man trapped inside a burning home, exemplify true heroism,” said Piedmont Walton CEO Blake Watts. “We are proud to recognize them as our First Friday Heroes and thank them for their unwavering commitment to the safety of others.”
Piedmont Walton launched the First Friday Hero program in 2024 to recognize first responders who exceed the call of duty.
If you would like to nominate a Walton County first responder for the Piedmont Walton First Friday Hero award, please submit your nomination to firstfridayherowalton@piedmont.org. Nominations should include your name and contact information along with the nominee’s name, the agency they work for, contact information for that agency, and a summary of why he or she should be considered a First Friday Hero.