HCSO Participates in 2023 International Association of Black Professional Firefighters

Youth Camp

Hamilton County, TN – Yesterday evening, Sheriff Austin Garrett and numerous HCSO personnel participated in the 2023 International Association of Black Professional Firefighters’ David J. Floyd Youth Camp at Booker T. Washington State Park. The camp was hosted by the local Chattanooga Chapter of the I.A.B.P.F.F., Inc.

The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office were invited to attend by the organization’s Executive Director and recent graduate of the inaugural Sheriff’s Citizens Academy, retired Chattanooga Fire Department Firefighter Freddie Brooks. The annual camp was created in honor of the I.A.B.P.F.F.’s first President, David J. Floyd, who served in the NYFD. The camp teaches skills and values that campers can use and enjoy all their lives and fosters a tangible and tactile connection to nature that only comes from immersing oneself in it.

As part of the presentation, personnel in the HCSO School Resource Deputy Unit, SWAT Team, K-9 Unit, and Patrol Services gave demonstrations and discussed how they conduct their daily operations. HCSO deputies serving in the Hamilton County UAS Team were also onsite flying law enforcement drones and showcasing some of their aerial capabilities.

“Participating in events like this youth camp helps to foster meaningful and lasting relationships between the HCSO and the citizens we proudly serve. Now, more than ever, it is important for law enforcement agencies to partner with organizations who seek to create positive opportunities to engage our youth and future community leaders,” stated Sheriff Austin Garrett.

Thank you to all the HCSO personnel who participated in last night’s event.