Merriam-Webster defines Ornery as having an irritable disposition or being difficult to deal with. It can also mean mischievous in the Midwestern US. An easier way to say Ornery is REX HALE. If you know Rex then you understand. I experienced the "difficult to deal with" when I inquired with him about his current health and financial situation. During the fall of 2024 Rex was having some health issues (kidney stones) He went in for a routine procedure and unfortunately nothing ended up being routine. Rex entered the hospital October 26 and was not released until December 16. He is still recovering, unable to work, and has multiple trips to Elk City for medical services. Rex is very concerned with the amount of medical bills from various physicians, specialists, hospitals, and the ambulance service. He was reluctant to ask for help from his community, friends, and family. Rex has always been employed driving thousands of miles as a truck driver. During the Rhea Fire of 2018 Rex came forward along with his close friend Wesley Turner and spent hours upon hours fighting fire and protecting homes of residents of Dewey County. Following the Rhea Fire both Rex & Wesley joined the Vici Fire Department. Both were past the age limit to enter then pension system but they both wanted to volunteer and help their community. Rex was often one of our first firemen to arrive at the station for a call. When our ambulance service is short staffed they often rely on firefighters to serve as drivers. Rex has volunteered numerous times day and night to help those in need. Please help Rex in his time of need until he is recovered and able to return to work. He maybe ornery, he maybe irritable, and he maybe difficult. But he has big heart and a big burden. Let's help relieve some of the burden. Sincerely, Buck Hutchens; Chief of Vici Fire Department