CHERAW – When Cheraw resident Roy Allison and his wife, Jean, attended the annual S.C. 911 conference at The Hilton in Myrtle Beach on Oct. 30, he had no idea what was in store for him. Much to his surprise, Allison learned that the Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials - International (APCO) and the National Emergency Numbers Association (NENA) had named him 911 Director of the Year for 2009.

Chapter President of S.C. Emergency Numbers Association (NENA), Renee Hardwick said that the conference was a joint conference with both agencies. “I find Mr. Allison to be dedicated in serving the people of Marlboro County and ensuring that they receive the services they need. Listening is the key to communicating, especially in this line of work. He listens to what the people have to say when they call in and gathers the information needed to be able to respond to his or her emergency.” She continued, “In smaller counties, a director of 911 wears many hats and carries a load of responsibilities as well,” she added.

Allison has served as Director of the 911 and Emergency Management for Marlboro County for over five years.

“I love what I do and I love to help others. Over the past five and one-half years, we have enhanced our equipment and training here. We added a new radio system, a new computer aided dispatch system (CAD) and a reverse 911 system,” said Allison.

For the past 32 years and still counting, he currently serves as a dedicated volunteer firefighter with the Cheraw Fire Department. Following in his father’s footsteps as a firefighter, Allison joined the Cheraw Fire Department at age 18 and the Cheraw Rescue Squad when he was 15. He has served on the Cheraw Rescue Squad as an EMT for the past 35 years now.

“I hope to make it to 50 years before I retire,” said Allison. “I am fortunate and blessed to have a great crew and a family that understands the passion that I have for the job I do. It’s a 24/7 job and knowing that your family is supportive, means a whole lot,” continued Allison.

In addition to having passion for his career, Allison loves to serve God and is also active in his church. Serving as a Sunday school teacher at First Baptist Church in Cheraw, he also captures the eyes and hearts of first and second grade children by teaching them about the Bible, which is again, something he loves to do.

“He has listened to the wishes of hundreds of children as he has played the part of Santa Claus for over 25 years in Chesterfield and in Marlboro Counties,” said his wife, Jean.

On Dec. 2, Allison was also interviewed by WBTW (Channel 13) for the Home Town Hero segment that is scheduled to air on Monday, Dec. 7, in which WBTW will feature his story and success.

“We are excited about the interview and appreciate everyone’s interest for my husband’s honor. He loves people, the community and loves what he does,” his wife said on Tuesday.

Allison said that he is looking forward to his continuing service to both Chesterfield and Marlboro Counties for a long time to come.