The Cole County Fire Protection District held their 2017 annual service awards banquet. The annual event shows appreciation to the fire fighter’s for their years of service and dedication to the district.
There is another aspect that really stands out with the 2017 service awards. The District recognized six firefighters who have given 150 years of service to the district. The combined years of service of district personnel are over 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.
The following firefighters were recognized for years of service.
- 5 years, Clayton Isenberg, Matt Prenger
- 15 years, Eric Berendzen
- 25 years, Alan Braun
- 45 years, Wayne Hammann, Steve Cearlock
- Fire Fighter of the Year, Norman Otto
- Officer of the Year, Nathan Luebbering
- Special Recognition Award, Kyle Rennick
- Outstanding Community Service Award, Scott Kempker
Deputy Chief’s Top 10 Most Wanted. The following firefighters responded to the most calls: Justin Braun, Zack Rustemeyer, Steve Barnes, Galen Hammann, Gary Berendzen, Jason Hammann, Diana DeBrine, Robbie Hammann, Scott Kempker and Jimmy Buechter.
Perfect Attendance in Training Awards: Donnie Braun, Zack Rustemeyer, Blake Bopp and Nathan Luebbering.
The District recognized the Ladies Auxiliary for their assistance to the firefighters.
The District is always looking for men and women who would proudly serve the community. Firefighting is a very rewarding experience helping those in need, whether it be educating children on fire safety, to extricating people from vehicle accidents, to extinguishing fires. If you are interested please contact the district office at 573-634-9011.
FFAM
