The E9-1-1 Institute and NENA Host
4th Annual 9-1-1 Honors Gala
March 13, 2007
__________________________________

Call Taker/Dispatcher Award
Fairfax County, Virginia

The Call Taker/Dispatcher Award honors the “First Responders”—
the 9-1-1 call-takers and dispatchers who are on the front line every.  

On May 8, 2006, a call of a car jacking ultimately led to one of the bloodiest and most traumatic days in Fairfax County history.  After two nearby attempted carjacking and a successful third, a mentally unstable man entered the rear parking lot of the Sully District Police Station armed with an AK-47 rifle, a bolt-action rifle and five handguns.  During the ensuing confrontation with police, the assailant ambushed and mortally wounded a police officer, killed a detective, and fired off over 160 rounds of ammunition before being brought down.

In the midst of an emotionally charged and confusing situation, the team of call takers at Fairfax County relayed coordinating information in calm voices to the police officers under fire.  Their teamwork helped the police on the scene put an end to a tragic and dangerous situation that would only take more lives had it lasted longer.

The actions of those at the Fairfax Call Center who were involved in this traumatic experience illustrated the effectiveness of team work and group coordination during a time of severe trauma.  Information was relayed quickly and effectively and because of that, lives were saved.

The actions taken by these call takers and dispatchers on this fateful day displayed how a team can work effectively even in the midst of a confusing and traumatic act.  The history of these people together and their dedication to public service, speaks to the true values of public safety workers everywhere.