Town Hall employee receives citation for "heroic actions"

After running out of town hall to stay with the victim of a car crash, Gabrielle Richards has received a citation from the Select Board for her “heroic efforts.” 

“I’m truly honored by this recognition,” said Richards. “Service has always been important to me, both as a sergeant in the military and as the Assistant Town Collector. Service is about more than a position or a title.” 

Richards is the Assistant Town Coordinator and a member of the armed forces. 

During a school pickup, a car driving on Slocum Road hit an illegally parked car and flipped over in the road. Richards ran out of Town Hall, got the woman out of the car and stayed with her until first responders arrived. 

According to Select Board Chair Heidi Silva Brooks, this was far from the first time Richards has helped people like this. In another instance, a man fell down the stairs in Town Hall. Richards applied pressure to the wounds until first responders responded. 

Richard’s boss Shannon stated that should an emergency ever happen, she wants Richards around. 

“It's about showing up for people, how you treat them, and what you do when someone needs you,” she said, “I wasn’t looking for recognition. I simply saw someone who needed help and did what I felt was right. I’m grateful to the town for this acknowledgment and proud to serve this community.”