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BY NIC MILLER
STAR CORRESPONDENT

In these trying times, it is hard to remember those who make the ultimate sacrifice for the community and stand on the front lines.

But Tim Holmes, a citizen of Elizabethton, has found a way to use his daily vehicle to honor the area’s first responders.

Holmes recently had his work vehicle, a box truck, wrapped in a mural that pays homage to the Elizabethton Police Department, Carter County EMS and Fire Department, the National Guard, and frontline workers who contribute to the medical field in the community.

When asked about his inspiration for this special project, Holmes stated, “Around 5 or 6 years ago, I used my truck for a tribute to the military, and about a year after that I had the idea to create the same type of thing for our first responders.”

“There was no better time to do it than now during the pandemic. But to me it’s not just about the pandemic, it’s about what they do for the community on an everyday basis.”

And to make things just that much more sentimental, Holmes added local first responders to his truck to help touch base with those in the community.

“The best thing is that all the agencies on this truck are local. Everything you see on the truck is from around the area, either in Johnson City or Carter County.”

Holmes has a personal connection with those on the frontline, as he included four family members on the front of the truck that serve the area in the nursing field.

“On the front, I have my four daughters who are all in the same field: Amanda, Sarah, Monica, and Lauren.”

The idea behind the truck was a simple one, but getting the pictures on the truck was a much more complex process.

Holmes stated, “I took the truck to Foster Signs and they were able to actually complete the project in about a week. However, It was about a six-month process of going around to all the local agencies to take the photos and put it all together in the way that we liked.”

Ready to go, Holmes plans to show his tribute off in as many ways as possible in the coming months, a way for all people in the community to recognize the sacrifices made by these heroes.

“We are gonna have the truck downtown during the Elizabethton celebration, and we are also going to take the truck to Jonesborough for their parade on July 3rd.”

“Other than that, this truck will be in and around the Tri-Cities every day. This truck is used for my business, but I would rather recognize our everyday heroes than advertise my business. It’s all about them and I want people to understand that.”

A very unique way to celebrate those who serve the community day in and day out, Holmes has decided to use his available resources for a cause that is much bigger than himself or his business.