Rural Metro Fire Department honored several recipients of the company's 2023 recognition awards last weekend during its annual banquet at the Josephine County Fairgrounds.
Attended by about 100 people, the event revisited the more than 2,800 emergencies handled by Rural Metro employees as well as the many training, public education and community activities performed throughout the year.
Special employee recognition was presented to Steven Teague for Firefighter of the Year, Pat Reilly for Reserve Firefighter of the Year, Thomas Ward for Recruit Firefighter of the Year and Captain Ethan Coates for Company Officer of the Year.
Fleet Maintenance Chief Brett Provost received the award for Support Services Excellence while the Instructor of the Year was David Tackett.
During an emotional moment, Captain Lance Shaw made a special presentation to fellow teammates who came to his aid after a traumatic accident, ultimately saving his life. They were identified as Arlan Cempa, David Parker, Shawn King, Jeremy George, Dan Dellsite, Kayleigh Schneider, Heather Sundell, Preston Jernigan and Randy Newell.
As the ceremony was nearing its conclusion, Rural Metro Fire Chief Steve Nelson made a special presentation to Operations Chief Austin Prince in recognition of his 35 years of service.
Rural Metro thanks all of its employees for their roles in making 2023 a safe and successful year as well as all those who were instrumental in coordinating the logistics and set-up of this annual event.
