HAGERSTOWN, Md. – Washington County’s 911 Communications Center honored several employees for their service and performance at the 2026 Tri-State Telecommunicators Awards Banquet, held as part of National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week.
Jason Kline received the Legacy Award for more than 20 years of service. Kline started in 2003 at the center’s former West Washington Street location and has worked as a floor supervisor, CAD specialist and, most recently, as an ECS III. He is known as a reliable mentor and expert on CAD systems who continues to contribute to operations and training.
Alan Crawford was named Supervisor of the Year. Colleagues credit his positive attitude and leadership style with creating a supportive environment. Recently promoted to operations manager, Crawford is respected for mentoring new supervisors and assisting staff at all hours.
Amanda was named 911 Dispatcher of the Year. A communications training officer skilled in law enforcement, fire and EMS dispatching, she has been recognized for her calm handling of major incidents, including a multi-agency response and a fatal structure fire. She has played a key role in training new dispatchers.
The center also presented its Teamwork Award to a group of telecommunicators and supervisors for their response to a severe weather event on April 19, 2025.
Recipients included Emergency Communications Supervisors Dwayne Flook, Alan Crawford, Beth Dattilio and Derek Bish, who died in July 2025.
Also honored were Emergency Communications Specialists Aaron Myers, Shirley Liu, Courtney Weaver, Joe Arch, Emily Buffenmeyer, Bill Haines, Bethani Mummert, Isabella Nicewarner, Todd Nesbitt, Ethan Grim, Logan Murphy, James Miller, Maggie Keller, Amanda Wagner, Brandi Campbell and Ysabella Galvan.
On the evening of the 2025 banquet, a fast-moving storm struck the county with little warning. As conditions worsened, Flook called for extra staff. Many team
members left the event and returned directly to the center, some driving through severe weather. Call volume spiked to nearly 1,000 calls in one hour and more than 1,500 calls over 5 1/2 hours.
Dispatchers answered calls, initiated callbacks and coordinated responses while helping keep first responders safe amid downed trees, blocked roads and power lines. Officials said the team’s quick adaptation and clear communication helped protect both emergency personnel and residents.
