Passing of CCDES Director Colonel Edward (Ed) J. Atkins

This evening, we join our brethren in morning the loss of our friend and dedicated community servant, Colonel Edward (Ed) J. Atkins, Director of the Chester County Department of Emergency Services. Colonel Atkins passed away tonight in hospice care, following a very recent series of devastating cerebral vascular accidents. In 1997, after a gallant 26 year U.S. Air Force career, Colonel Ed Atkins was hand chosen by the Chester County Commissioners to lead the C.C.D.E.S. into the the future, and clean up the mess that was left by the previous administration. Colonel Atkins rose up to the challenge, and in short time, made Chester County one of the premier providers of Emergency Services. Never one to back down, Colonel Atkins provided the necessary leadership to turn a once inept 911 call center, into the positive and progressive example that it is today in the State of Pennsylvania. Colonel Atkins was in the trenches, and on the front lines with us. He made sure we all obtained what was needed to serve our communities with honor, pride, and distinction. Today we lost a man that epitomized service and reliability.

Rest in peace in the Eternal Light of our Lord.

Respectfully,

Sadsburyville Officers, Active Crew, and Membership