Cochise County has recently celebrated the remarkable tenure of Mr. Robert "Bob" Hollister, who has devoted 32 years to serving as the County’s RACES Officer, a role he took up in 1993. Hollister was honored at the July 22 board meeting, where his retirement was acknowledged with a mix of respect and gratitude. The Cochise County's recognition came as a testament to his steadfast commitment to managing the Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service program, a crucial element for communications during emergencies.
For over three decades, Bob Hollister has been a central figure in orchestrating the volunteer-led Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service team, ensuring reliable communications during natural disasters and other critical public safety incidents. His leadership has not only amplified the capabilities of the Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service program but has also entrenched it as a cornerstone of regional emergency preparedness. Reporting from the Cochise County website, his expertise was frequently solicited beyond Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service, providing technical support to various local agencies, from fire departments to police forces, as well as extending his knowledge to the County IT infrastructure.
The accolades for Hollister were presented by Emergency Management Director Dan Duchon, who wasted no time in expressing his admiration for Hollister's accomplishments. "Bob has gone above and beyond in every way," Duchon said, as reported by the Cochise County announcement. The director emphasized the profound impact of Hollister's contributions on the overall safety and resilience of the community in Cochise County.
Bob Hollister, who will be taking his leave from his Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service responsibilities in July 2025, leaves a legacy of both inspiration and tangible improvements in emergency response mechanics. Cochise County acknowledges his service with deep appreciation, marking the end of an era defined by dedication to public service. With a firm handshake and shared reminiscences, the county's board meeting bid a fond farewell to a man whose three decades shaped the very fabric of its emergency response capabilities.
