One thing has become clear during the COVID-19 pandemic: it has brought out the best in many people and shown the generosity of the Perry community.

The latest example of that was on display Friday morning, as a recent Perry High School graduate donated 50 face shields to Dallas County Emergency Medical Services, which he had personally made. Justus Williams, a member of the Perry Class of 2018, was enlisted by DMACC VanKirk Career Academy Director Eddie Diaz to use his knowledge and resources to 3D print the shields to be used by medical professionals. Williams and his brother, Will Lundbohum, used their personal 3D printer to manufacture 50 face shields, and they’re in the process of making 50 more. They donated the personal protective equipment to EMS Director Mike Thomason, who graciously accepted them and thanked the brothers for their efforts.

The first 50 went to the ambulance service, with the next 50 to go to Dallas County Hospital. Thomason said his department typically uses disposable face shields, which work well, but emphasized that the ones being donated can be cleaned and used multiple times, which make them even more useful to his crews. Williams declined accepting any payment for the masks, saying he was happy to help out during this difficult time. Williams said the design for the shields was provided free over the internet, and encourages others who own 3D printers to follow his example.