The Cole County Fire Protection District recently held its 2015 annual service awards banquet, which shows appreciation to firefighters for their years of service and dedication to the district.
This year the district recognized 23 firefighters who, combined, have given 580 years of service. The combined years of service of all district personnel equal more 1,300 years.
"This in itself shows the commitment to the district by its personnel in the aspects of training, call response and the rewards of helping others in their time of need," said District Spokesman Steve Cearlock.
The following firefighters were recognized for years of service: Justin Braun, five years; Pam Carsten, 10 years; Josh Luebbering, Nathan Luebbering, Sue Phillips and Shawn York, 15 years; Alan Cortvrient, Bill Farr, Dave Luebbering, Myron Luebbering, Doug Luebbering and Norman Otto, 20 years; Larry Benz, 25 years; Gary Braun and Larry Engelbrecht, 30 years; Larry Barnard, Steve Barnes, Dave Berendzen, Mike Hart and Mike Rackers, 35 years; Bill Braun and Galen Hammann, 40 years; and Gary Smith, 45 years.
Other honors included: Mack Kennedy, Firefighter of the Year; Mike Hart, Officer of the Year; Rich Gordon, Special Recognition Award; and Gary Berendzen, Outstanding Community Service Award.
The following firefighters also received the "Deputy Chief's Top 10 Most Wanted" award for responding to the most calls: Justin Braun, Galen Hammann, Zack Rustemeyer, Bod Berendzen, Gary Berendzen, Jimmy Buechter, Bradley Kempker, Steve Barnes, Kyle Renick and Jason Hammann.
Perfect Attendance in Training awards were given to the following firefighters: Donnie Braun, Gary Smith, Galen Hammann, Robbie Hammann, Kyle Cardwell, Justin Braun, Blake Bopp, Gary Berendzen, Zack Rustemeyer and Brady McGrail.
Special awards were given to Kyle Cardwell and Bob Berendzen, and special recognition was also given to the ladies' auxiliary for their support of the firefighters during the year.