ABOVE: George Dowell sits with his family at start of special ceremony in the City Council Chambers.
In 2025, he stepped down from the Danville Board of Fire and Police Commissioners after eight years of service. And Tuesday evening (Jan 6th), prior to the regular board meeting, George Dowell found himself at a surprise honor ceremony in the Danville City Council Chambers. Dowell said afterwards, as well as during his brief speech, that Danville has served him more than he has served Danville.
Chief Yates shares memories of George Dowell, Board of Fire and Police Commissioners Chair Amy Hoose presents Dowell a plaque, George Dowell addresses the attendees.
AUDIO: I grew up in Danville. I was an athlete, played a lot of ball and stuff. But I was given a lot of opportunities for advancements. And knowing a lot of people helped me get good employments. Like I worked for the Department of Corrections; I was a deputy sheriff. I got my education in Police Science from Danville Area Community College. So I took full advantage of Danville, so I always felt I owed Danville something.
Police Chief Christopher Yates recalled how much Dowell helped him; after Yates first became police chief.
(1st Picture) George Dowell (middle) poses with Board Commissioner Larry Fredericks, Mayor Rickey Williams Jr, Board Commissioner Kristina Dixon, Board of Commissioners Chair Amy Hoose, Police Chief Christopher Yates, and Fire Chief Aaron Marcott.
AUDIO: I appreciated his silence/strength. He taught me a little bit on maybe opening my ears a little better while I keep my mouth shut; until I can digest everything. That’s what he did. He listened to everything. And then when he did speak, it was always of value.
George Dowell stated he loves speaking with today’s young people, looking to set them in a positive direction rather than a negative direction.
