Local firefighters honored at banquet

The Cole County Fire Protection District recently held its 2016 annual service awards banquet to show appreciation to firefighters for their years of service and dedication to the district.

This year, the district recognized six firefighters who gave a combined 120 years of service to the district. The combined years of service for all district personnel total more than 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," Steve Cearlock, district spokesman, said.

Firefighters who were recognized and their years of service included: Phil Rutledge, five years; Aaron Gish and Kevin Wieberg, 10 years; Julie Rademann, 15 years; Alan Corturient, Bill Farr, Dave Luebbering, Myron Luebbering, Doug Luebbering and Norman Otto, 20 years; and Robert Hammann, 35 years.

The firefighter of the year award was given to Zack Rustemeyer, and Jason Hammann was named officer of the year.

Jim Trapani received the special recognition award; Gary Berendzen was given the outstanding community service award.

The deputy chief's top 10 most wanted award is given to firefighters who responded to the most calls. The 10 honored were Justin Braun, Galen Hammann, Zack Rustemeyer, Bob Berendzen, Gary Berendzen, Jimmy Buechter, Steve Barnes, Jason Hammann, Phil Rutledge and Brady McGail.

Perfect attendance in training awards went to Donnie Braun, Galen Hammann, Zack Rustemeyer, Jimmy Buechter and Jason Hammann

Special awards were given to Kyle Cardwell and Bob Berendzen, and special recognition was given to the ladies auxiliary for their support of the firefighters during the year.

Also getting special recognition was Capt. Larry Rizner, who has served in the fire service for more than 52 years, 46 with Cole County. He was recognized for his dedication to Cole County Station 4, but he is probably best known for his development of the District's Honor Guard in 1998. The guard has presented colors at the Missouri State Senate Chambers, parades, prayer breakfasts and funerals.