Volunteer Spotlight: Tom Hamernik

Name: Tom Hamernik
Title: Firefighter/EMT
Department Name: Clarkson Volunteer Fire and Rescue
Location: Clarkson, NE

Why are you an NVFC member?
I joined for the communication assets, and the extra life insurance is a nice bonus. I am active in advocating for our volunteer responders at the state level, and feel our group is woefully underrepresented. I have served as an active first responder for over 45 years and hope to contribute to the NVFC discussion.

What is your occupation?
Family business owner

Why are you a fire service volunteer?
My dad served before my brothers and me. We saw the commitment he and his fellow firefighters and rescue responders had to each other and our community and wanted that level of comradery.

What year did you join the fire or emergency service?
1978

What are your memorable moments as a firefighter or EMS provider?
There have been many over 45 years, some good and others very difficult to get past. Saving a friend’s parents after a very bad vehicle accident, under very difficult conditions. Both had collapsed lungs, broken limbs, and neck injuries. This was before helicopter medical air services. We had a 25-minute transport to our local hospital. They both recovered from their injuries. That one incident stayed with me through many tough calls where we were unable to affect the outcome.

I get a tremendous amount of pride watching our younger folks learn and work through situations that previous generations have faced. Then to be there next to them when they realized what they have accomplished together!

What contributions have you (and your department) made in your community?
Our department raises and contributes funds to nearly all of the community projects. The firefighters/EMS folks are the group people come to when a project needs hands and minds to complete it. We have a long history of strong leadership and getting projects finished.

Interested in serving your community? Find volunteer fire service opportunities at www.MakeMeAFirefighter.org.