Celebrating Heroes in Our Communities at NHRA Races

We meet heroes everywhere we go.

The best part about being the official coffee of the NHRA is that it gives us the opportunity to travel the country meeting and celebrating exceptional first responders at each race location through our Community Hero Award. 

These remarkable individuals embody excellence in the emergency services field and demonstrate unwavering dedication to their communities. 

At last weekend’s race in Epping, New Hampshire, we honored a man with four decades of service on his resume. And this weekend in Bristol, TN, we get to honor a first responder who is leading on many levels throughout his community.

New Hampshire Community Hero: Deputy Chief Mark Proulx

Last week's race at the NHRA New England Nationals in Epping, NH, gave us the chance to recognize Deputy Chief Mark Proulx from the Epping Fire and Rescue Department. With over four decades of experience, Proulx's commitment to learning and serving his community sets him apart. His impressive array of certifications — including over 100 in various disciplines —  exemplifies his pursuit of excellence.

Proulx's expertise as a lead diver and Open Water SCUBA Instructor has proven invaluable to the Nashua Fire and Rescue Department Dive Team. As an Advanced Emergency Medical Technician, he specializes in psychological first aid and pediatric emergencies. 

In addition to his role as a first responder, Proulx shares his knowledge by teaching CPR and first aid to civilians and medical professionals throughout New England. As the chairman of the Granite State Critical Incident Stress Management Team, he supports fellow first responders in coping with traumatic incidents. 

Proulx also serves as a representative in the New Hampshire state legislature, where he is a champion for first responders and an advocate for the safety and well-being of all.

Tennessee Community Hero: Lieutenant Brandon Jordan

At the NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals in Bristol, TN, we will honor Lieutenant Brandon Jordan from the Johnson City Fire Department. With 19 years of experience, Jordan demonstrates versatility and adaptability as a company officer on "A" shift, where he supervises Engine Company 7.

Jordan is a past recipient of the prestigious Firefighter of the Year award from Johnson City's Carver Park Community and the state of Tennessee. He actively contributes to the growth and recognition of his fellow firefighters through his involvement in the driver/engineer promotional process and the fire department's service awards committee.

While excelling in his professional role, Jordan has also earned advanced degrees in Master of Business Administration and a Master of Science in Healthcare Administration, all while maintaining a perfect GPA. 

He remains active in his community, serving as an advisor for the Sullivan East High School fire science program, coaching youth sports and contributing to his church. 

Jordan's commitment to continuous learning and community engagement is truly remarkable, making him the perfect choice for our Community Hero Award.

More Heroes to Celebrate

The NHRA race season runs through November, which means that we have more than a dozen chances left to honor deserving local heroes from coast to coast.

We want to congratulate every hero who has been recognized so far this season. We’re grateful for all that you do in your communities.

And we look forward to meeting many more heroes at the track this year. Next up after this weekend is the Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals in Norwalk, Ohio, on June 22-25.