Hometown Heroes

Know of a Hometown Hero in law enforcement, EMS, fire & rescue, education, healthcare or that's a veteran? Your nomination could earn them a free Texas Roadhouse lunch.

Independence Day is one of my favorite holidays for several reasons; food, fireworks and family. But for me, the day is about reflecting on the miracle of America's birth and those who fought against tyranny. It's also a moment to remember that many soldiers and their families are celebrating their country's birth apart from each other...

Al Dupont has served Tuscaloosa for over 50 years as a land surveyor, assistant city engineer, public works director, and finally as long-serving Mayor. Dupont was born in Louisiana and grew up in the Depression which he credits was the spark that drove him to work for the common good of people...

Staff Sgt. Shawn Franks joined the military after being inspired by his uncle. His military career spans almost twenty years and continues today in the Army Reserves.  He currently lives in Tuscaloosa with his wife Luann and their three children, Caleb, Seth and Grace...

Update: On September 2nd, 2013, former Iraq war veteran and Tuscaloosa Police Officer, Jared Timp, lost his battle with cancer. He died surrounded by his family at Saint Mary's Hospital in Rochester, Minnesota. Jared is survived by his young son, Magnus.

LCPL Kelson Epperson is 19 years old and serving his 2nd year in the Marines. He decided to join the military when he was in the 3rd grade and he learned about the terrorist attacks on 9/11. Growing up, his mother Lashonda Goins, said he never strayed from his chosen path and when he turned 17, he joined the Marines...

Staff Sgt. Brant Merriam lives in Northport with his wife Jen and three children. Brant has served in the Alabama National Guard since August 2007 and served in the Navy Reserves from 2004 until 2007. In June of last year, Sgt. Merriam was deployed overseas with Bravo Company 1/167th Infantry out of Pelham and is currently stationed in Kabul, Afghanistan...

Senior Master Sgt. Bobby Taylor was born in 1959 and served in the United States Navy from 1977 to 1980. He then served active duty in the Navy until 1982.

This week's Hometown Hero,Staff Sergeant Jared Olvey, has served in the Alabama National Guard for over 13 years and is currently stationed overseas in Afghanistan with B Company 1-167 Infantry out of Pelham, Alabama. When not on active duty, he serves and protects the citizens of Tuscaloosa as a member of the Tuscaloosa Police department...