MERIDIAN, Miss. (Queen City Newsfeed) – The Lauderdale County Emergency Management Agency’s dive team is marking significant growth and achievement after two years of expansion, intensive training and an increase in mission responses, according to LEMA Director Odie Barrett.
Barrett said the team, made up of 22 members from Lauderdale Emergency Management and the Meridian Fire Department, has steadily built its capabilities over the past two years. In 2025 alone, the dive team conducted four recovery operations, a number Barrett described as unusually high for a single year.
“That’s a big number,” Barrett said. “It’s a lot of training and work.”
Between its 22 members, the team has earned a combined 114 diving certifications, including Advanced Diver, Master Diver and Dive Master credentials. Barrett said much of that training took place over nearly every weekend during the summer months.
The team’s accomplishments were recognized during a press conference and ceremony held Monday, Jan. 5, 2026, at 7 p.m.
Barrett himself achieved the prestigious Master Diver certification this year, a milestone reached by fewer than 2% of divers worldwide. He has been diving since 2013. Meridian Fire Chief Michael Evans also earned his Master Diver certification, and Barrett said roughly half of the dive team now holds Master Diver status.
To help support continued training and operations, the team is selling challenge coins for $20. Proceeds benefit the dive team through its 501(c)(3) nonprofit status, making purchases tax-deductible. Coins can be purchased by contacting LEMA directly or by speaking with a team diver.
Barrett credited local leadership for the team’s growth and success.
“Without the Board of Supervisors, the City Council, the Mayor’s office — our team couldn’t be what it is,” Barrett said.
He emphasized that the dive team’s mission extends beyond county lines.
“We’re there for not just our community, but all of Mississippi if needed,” Barrett said.
LEMA officials said the team will continue training and recruitment efforts to maintain readiness for emergency response and recovery operations across the region.
