VIDEOS: At 53 years old, she put on the gear for the first time; it wasn’t just about fighting fires—it was about proving something to herself.
Lillie Sims, now the oldest firefighter recruit to complete training in Henry County, is blazing a trail for others who might feel like it’s too late to start something new.
“I’m a former military veteran,” Sims said. “In the military, I served as a medic. This is something I always wanted to do.”
She made the career move after a personal emergency. When her mother was hurt, she called 911—and Henry County Fire Rescue showed up fast.
“Someone helped my mom,” she said. “To help people in their most challenging and difficult times – I want to be a part of that.”
Henry County Fire Chief Pat Wilson said his department is lucky, unlike many across Georgia, who are feeling the pressure of the national firefighter shortage.
“Everywhere is struggling, from the City of Atlanta to the larger metropolitan points to south Georgia,” Wilson said. “Her story will help inspire others to want to give back to the community.”
