The Cole County Fire Protection District held its 2013 annual service awards banquet last weekend.
The annual event shows appreciation to the firefighters for their years of service and dedication to the district.
Currently there are eight firefighters on the district staff who have given a combined 85 years of service. The combined years of service of district personnel is over 1,100 years. District officials said this in itself shows the commitment by its personnel in the aspects of training, call response and the rewards of helping others in their time of need.
The following firefighters were recognized for years of service:
• 5 years: Adam Bashore, Jill Luebbering, James Rademann and Bill Wirtel
• 10 years: Matt Long, John Moore and Bryan Morris
• 35 years: Tom Kempker
Firefighter of the Year: Gary Berendzen
Officer of the Year: Mike Hart
Special Recognition Award: Howard Scott
Outstanding Community Service Award: Gary Berendzen
Deputy Chief's Top 10 Most Wanted:
• Justin Braun, Galen Hammann, Gary Berendzen, Steve Barnes, Jason Hammann, Robbie Hammann, Shawn York, Mike Hart, Kyle Carwell and Rich Gordon
Perfect Attendance in Training Award:
• Steve Barnes, Galen Hammann, Robbie Hammann, Kyle Carwell, Justin Braun, Nathan Luebbering, Gary Berendzen, Jason Hammann and Mike Hart.
Life Saving Award:
• Assistant Chief Steve Barnes was recognized for pulling two firefighters out of a structure fire after a flash over.
During the awards banquet, Gary Berendzen spoke on the newly established district cadet program and introduced the six cadets.
The Cole County Auxiliary was also recognized for their continuing support of the district through their funding and support of the firefighters.
The fire district is always looking for qualified individuals to become firefighters. If you are interested in becoming firefighter for the district, contact the district office at 634-9011.