To the editor:

I am writing this in regards to our city crews and their prompt and professional response to severe damage following thunderstorms on the night of June 17. There were numerous workers who responded and assisted with debris-covered streets, power outages, checking on residents, and assisting wherever needed.

All city departments were represented during the response to get out city back in order.

However, five individuals stood out to me in their response. Harvey Sanders, Christian Pedersen, Travis Schafers, Randy Kelsey, and Frank Werner were all out from the beginning of the disaster until long after all other crews and employees from other departments went home.

This crew never complained, but rather knew exactly what needed to be done and worked quickly together to develop plans and execute them to re-connect the city with power. They faced extremely dangerous situations with downed power lines in extremely wet environments. There was extreme lightening, rain, and hail, yet they worked diligently through it all to ensure our city was re-connected.

I know this is their job but I feel they went above and beyond in their response and deserve recognition for their efforts and dedication.

Their commitment and hard work made me proud to be part of our Marion city family. Our departments are second to none; these gentlemen all proved that on this extremely long and stressful night. Please take time to recognize their efforts and a work ethic that should be an example to everyone of what we as a city need to ensure future success.

I know that when disaster strikes in this community, we will recover because we have the proper people on staff working to ensure that we will rebound from any disaster.

Josh Whitwell
Marion police chief