First female firefighter joins Cordele Fire Dept.

CORDELE, Ga. – Just 61 years ago, women in the United States were legally allowed to work.

And, since then, women have flourished in any field they desire.

Even the ones where it’s not normalized, like being a firefighter.

Yet history is being made right here South Georgia,

As Abbey Patterson becomes the first female firefighter in Cordele history.

And, it was well earned as Abbey Patterson volunteered for seven years for the Cordele Fire Department, showing that she had great commitment for her community before taking this position.

As the first in history, there’s no past experience or advice she can rely on.

She will be the blueprint that future women look up to.

“It’s an absolutely massive honor to be the first female firefighter. It’s kind of a unique position to be in, though, because I don’t have any shoes to fill. I create those shoes, so it’s an exciting position to be in. But, I also have high standards for myself,” said Abbey Patterson, First Female Firefighter, Cordele Fire Dept.

This could mean so much more, potentially inspiring young girls everywhere to believe that any career they dream of is within reach.

“Yeah. I do think it’s important for girls in the community to see a female firefighter in our department. It’s a big step,” said Chief Todd Alligood, Cordele Fire Dept.

Patterson recognizes this as a major step forward, embracing the opportunity to be a role model for young girls and women in Cordele.

“I want to be a role model for other women to show you can do this. You can come into a male dominated field and still excel at what you do,” said Patterson.

Women like Abbey aren’t afraid to make bold decisions, paving the way as innovators in their careers.

Gabe Hutton reporting.

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