UPDATE (September 17th):
A major police escort took Director Smith to his final resting place at the Chattanooga National Cemetery on Friday.
UPDATE (September 12th):
On September 13 at 5:30 PM CST, the Dunlap Fire Department will meet at Standefer-Reed Funeral Home and travel to Reed Funeral Home in Whitwell, to escort Director Smith back to Dunlap.
They're asking any agency wishing to take part in the procession to be at Standefer-Reed no later that 5:15PM.
The procession will will travel from Reed Funeral Home in Whitwell, North on SR 28, to Standefer-Reed in Dunlap.
UPDATE (September 9th):
The Dunlap Fire Department reports that Sequatchie County Emergency Management Agency Director Winfred Smith, Jr. has passed away.
The department made the announcement on Facebook just after 11:30 PM Wednesday.
Arrangements have not been released.
This is a developing story. Depend on us as we learn more.
UPDATE (Later on Tuesday, September 7th)
The Dunlap Fire Department reports that Sequatchie County Emergency Management Agency Director Winfred Smith, Jr. has been in the hospital for several days with complications from COVID-19.
A post on the Dunlap Fire Department's page shares an update from Smith's son, and says "We ask everyone to take a second and send a quick prayer and positive thoughts to the Smith Family, and for EMA Director Smith. Keep fighting sir!!"
Smith's son Rodney has provided public updates on his father's condition on his Facebook page. His latest post says, "Dads Doctor said they have done all they can at this point and would continue the care their doing," and "He is one of the strongest men I know! Keep fighting Winfred Smith Jr you got this!"
Depend on us to keep you posted.
UPDATE (Tuesday, September 7th):
Dunlap Fire said on Facebook Monday that Chief Hatfield continues to be treated for issues in his lungs, and remains in the hospital.
The post says,
UPDATE ON CHIEF HATFIELD
Deputy Chief Gene Barker received word that Chief Hatfield is still being treated for issues in his lungs. He is resting, as the doctor tries to assist with his oxygen levels. We just ask that everyone continue to pray for Chief Hatfield.
Also, we ask that everyone keep praying for SCEMA Director Winfred Smith Jr , as he continues his fight with complications from Covid. We know that many our community are fighting this same battle, and it is hard for everyone to see the light through the darkness. Just remember that we are a strong community. We ask everyone to please do your part to help fight the spread. Maintain social distancing in public areas; wash your hands often, and avoid touching your face; follow CDC and healthcare guidelines.
We are all in the together, and we are ALL, Sequatchie Strong!
Depend on us to keep you posted on Chief Hatfield's condition.
EARLIER:
The Dunlap Fire Department is asking everyone to pray for a speedy recovery for Fire Chief Norman Hatfield.
Hatfield is now in the hospital with COVID-19.
A post on the Dunlap Fire Department's Facebook page says doctors are treating Hatfield for an infection in his lungs.
The post says although Hatfield is having breathing difficulties, he is conscious and alert.
The post also says, "We have been in contact with Chief Hatfield today, and are happy to report that he is in good spirits.
The post says Deputy Chief Gene Barker will oversee the fire department while Chief Hatfield remains in the hospital.
It concludes, "Get well soon Chief!!!"
Depend on us to keep you posted on Chief Hatfield's condition.