MACEDONIA, S.C.—For Randy “RJ” Cannon, firefighting isn’t just his calling—it’s been a longtime dream of his.
While he may not be old enough to drive a fire truck to a call, for the last six years he’s volunteered with the Macedonia Rural Fire Department. There, he is a member of the department’s junior explorers program.
“My son wants to be a fireman when he grows up,” said proud mother, Rhoda Cannon. “Chief Wayne Wells, Deputy Chief Brandon Munn along with Chief Jerry Hush is giving RJ all the training he needs to become a great firefighter when he is 18.”
The Macedonia Junior Explorers Program is sponsored by the Boy Scouts of America. While most teens RJ’s age would rather play video games or watch television all day, this teen would rather focus on how he can better serve his community.
As a student of Timberland High, RJ recently received an award in JROTC for his willingness to lend a helping hand.
“I’ve raised RJ to be a respectful, young man,” said his mom. “He loves helping people. “
RJ, who is also a certified EMR responder, currently takes part in regularly training at his community’s fire department. While he is honing his skills as a firefighter, he’s also planning a big event to help folks in need.
The 16-year-old along with a friend are currently organizing a community blood drive for August 11 from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. The event will be held at the Macedonia Fire Department located at: 2108 Highway 17A in Bonneau.
“He hopes he can have a great turn out and get plenty of donations of blood since the summer time is when blood is at its lowest,” said the teen’s mother.
With the help of the community, he’s hoping to help the Red Cross boost its blood donations.
For additional information on the upcoming blood drive, please click on this link.
