A New Chapter Begins: Washington County Welcomes Panhandle Search and Rescue

August 22, 2025 – In a unanimous and powerful show of support, Washington County Commissioners voted 5 to 0 today in, officially establishing Panhandle Search and Rescue (PSAR) as the county’s new volunteer nonprofit Search and Rescue Team. Among the proudest faces in the room was that of John Williamson, whose vision and tireless work turned a dream into reality.

A Vision Rooted in Service

John Williamson’s journey toward founding PSAR began long before this historic vote. A retired volunteer firefighter with over 15 years of experience, Williamson carried an unwavering commitment to serve and protect his community. Inspired by his upbringing in the Florida Panhandle and deep-seated values of duty and compassion, he envisioned a nonprofit team dedicated not only to rescue—but to caring for and empowering all members of the community, especially those most vulnerable.

Eight Years of Determination and Community-Building

Bringing PSAR to life wasn’t easy. For eight years, Williamson worked relentlessly—navigating bureaucracy, building partnerships, and rallying community support. His efforts paid off in May 2025, when Panhandle Search and Rescue received its 501(c)(3) nonprofit status—a critical milestone that transformed the initiative from passion project into legal reality.

Mission with Heart and Purpose

PSAR is not just another search and rescue team. As a nonprofit, its mission extends beyond traditional emergency response to focus on inclusive, compassionate assistance. The team is being trained to support individuals who may be nonverbal, mobility-impaired, emotionally distressed, or otherwise vulnerable.

Unlike many SAR organizations, PSAR aims to minimize the need for rescue through proactive outreach and education—teaching storm preparedness, making homes safer, and providing daily support to those who might otherwise be isolated or at risk.

Unanimous Support: The 5-0 Vote

The vote held today marks a watershed moment for Washington County. With a full 5-to-0 endorsement from county leadership, PSAR now officially stands as a recognized nonprofit resource—backed by local government and ready to serve. This demonstrates the county’s confidence in Williamson’s leadership and the team’s readiness to make a positive, difference-making impact.

What Lies Ahead for PSAR

    •    Recruitment & Training: With official backing, PSAR will ramp up recruitments, offering specialized training in compassionate outreach, rescue logistics, and inclusive communication.

    •    Community Programs: Expect workshops on storm safety, support for residents with disabilities, and hands-on education to reduce the need for emergency rescues.

    •    Collaboration with First Responders: PSAR will coordinate closely with fire departments, EMS, and law enforcement—stepping in as backup in times of crisis, never replacing, always supporting.

A Leader with a Heart

John Williamson isn’t driven by accolades—he’s motivated by a simple belief: no one should be left behind, no matter their age, ability, or circumstance. Through PSAR, he’s crafting a legacy of compassion-driven service—a safety net built by and for the people of the Panhandle and Washington County.

The unanimous 5-0 vote by Washington County Commissioners doesn’t just recognize PSAR—it affirms a shared vision of servant leadership, proactive safety, and community unity. As Panhandle Search and Rescue, a newly established nonprofit organization, prepares to step into its role, the key to its strength will be its compassionate approach, inclusive mindset, and the community that helped make it happen.