WESTLOCK - Volunteer firefighters from the stations in Westlock County were recognized and celebrated at the Annual Fire Appreciation Awards held on Dec. 7. The event, in conjunction with the county’s Christmas party at the Pine Valley Resort in Tawatinaw, honoured firefighters years of dedicated service to the community.
For 25 years of service, Ross Smith from Station 1 (Fawcett Fire Department) and James Hoetmer from Station 4 (Clyde Rural Fire Department) were recognized.
Fifteen years of service recognition went to Mike Mielke from Station 2 (Jarvie Fire Department) and Dion Barry from Station 5 (Pickardville Fire Department).
For 10 years of service, Dave Stoby from Station 6 (Busby Fire Department) was recognized.
Awards for five years of service were given to Travis Jackman, Station 6 (Busby Fire Department), Lance Roberts from Station 4 (Clyde Rural Fire Department), and Kaleb Stitsen from Station 6 (Busby Fire Department).
Drew Beattie from Station 4 (Clyde Rural Fire Department) was the recipient of the Glenn Latimer Memorial Award that honours the memory of Glenn Latimer, a dedicated firefighter, and is presented annually to an individual who exemplifies the same spirit of service.
The Alberta Emergency Services Medal for 12 years of service was awarded to Joe Bokenfohr from Station 6 (Busby Fire Department), and Justin Murray from Station 1 (Fawcett Fire Department).
In addition to the service milestones, a special draw was held to recognize the volunteer hours of firefighters from each station. The winning members were awarded gift cards in appreciation of their time and dedication.
They were: Station 1 - Don Borle; Station 2 - Noah Musterer; Station 4 - Perry Lumayko; Station 5 - Dion Barry; and Station 6 - Lewis Butler.
The Westlock County Fire Services Department has one full-time County Fire Chief, five District Chiefs and more than 90 volunteer firefighters
