Breckenridge Texan

Tom Claybrook, who recently retired from the position of Hubbard Creek Volunteer Fire Department Chief, was honored by the Stephens County Commissioners Court on Dec. 12.

Stephens County Judge Michael Roach shows Tom Claybrook the plaque the Commissioners Court was presenting to him for his retirement from the position as Chief of the Hubbard Creek Volunteer Fire Department. Also pictured are Commissioners Will Warren and David Fambro. (Photo by Tony Pilkington/Breckenridge Texan)

County Judge Michael Roach acknowledged the work that Claybrook has done with the VFD, specifically commending him for  assistance from Claybrook and the HCVFD during the 2021 freeze that left much of Texas, including Stepens County, without electric power, heat and water.

“So we really appreciate you, Tom, not for just being an organization that saves people’s property and land, but you see the greater good in our community,” Roach said.

Commissioner Will Warren and County Fire Marshal Wayne McMullen also praised Claybrook for his work with the volunteer fire department.

Claybrook has worked with the HCVFD since the organization was founded in 2009.

“It’s never been a job; it’s always been an honor,” Claybrook said at the meeting. “I’ve always looked forward to helping. Throughout my professional life early, I was never able to help in my community. And since I’ve moved here and got with the fire department, it’s what I’ve always wanted to do, to be a part of a community and help everywhere I could. And, so everything I’ve done out there, to me it’s never been a job, never been a chore. It’s always been something that I’ve looked forward to doing.”

Claybrook said that he intends to remain a volunteer with the HCVFD and help out as much as he can.

The Commissioners Court presented Claybrook with a plaque at the meeting.

Carl Huffman has been named the new HCVFD Fire Chief.

Cutline, top photo: Tom Claybrook, center, was presented with a plaque by the Stephens County Commissioners Court for his retirement from the Fire Chief position with the Hubbard Creek Volunteer Fire Department. Pictured, from left, are County Judge Michael Roach, Commissioners Eric O’Dell and Mark McCullough, Claybrook, and Commissioners Will Warren and David Fambro. (Photo by Tony Pilkington/Breckenridge Texan)

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