All of us at 101.5 KNUE are proud to be part of East Texas, and we are especially proud to live in a place where we hold our military and first responders in such high regard.

KNUE + Patterson UTI are proud to announce this week’s “Hometown Hero," Van Volunteer Fire Department Chief Jeff Hudgens.

Hudgens, of Van, was nominated anonymously. Here's what the anonymous submitter had to say about Jeff:

Jeff is the Fire Chief of the Van Volunteer Fire Department as well as a Captain for the Tyler Fire Department, a SWAT medic and soon to be police officer. Our town was greatly impacted by the recent tornado. Jeff has been a good chunk of the glue that has held everything together. He has spent countless hours to keep the community informed and coordinate relief efforts with all the first responders, various disaster relief organizations and all the wonderful volunteers. Thank you Jeff for all your hard work and caring for our community, you truly are a hero!

To show our appreciation for Jeff's dedication and service to his country and community, he will receive a plaque courtesy of Tyler Trophy. They specialize in awards, engraving, trophies, plaques, gifts and more.

Thank you for your service, Jeff, and we are proud to call you a fellow East Texan.

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