Tyler Fire Department Holds 25th Annual Ceremony Banquet

TYLER — The Tyler Fire Department held it’s 25th annual awards banquet ceremony Saturday night. During the ceremony, firefighters, along with retired firefighters and civilians were honored for their actions and service to the City of Tyler. Matthew Daniel (pictured) was named Firefighter of the Year. Legends Awards: Neal Kennemer – Hired on May 16, 1968. Retired on August 31, 2000, with over 32 years of service to the City of Tyler. Don Martin – Hired on July 1, 1967. Retired on December 1, 1998, with over 31 years of service to the City of Tyler. Orvice Rozell – Hired on July 1, 1966. Retired on January 9, 1992, with over 25 years of service to the City of Tyler.

Chief’s Certificates of Merit were awarded to: Captain Steve Countryman and Driver/Engineer Terry Hawkins.

Special Recognition: Brookshires Grocery Company, East Texas Medical Center – Emergency Medical Services, Hi-Way Towing, Holiday Inn – Tyler.

Friend of the Department Awards: Tyler Area Chamber of Commerce, Tyler Police Department, Lynn Barker – Becket Oil, Keidric Trimble – City of Tyler and Waterton Plaza. Staff Support Award: Lisa Huffman, Paula Henderson, Lauren Maynard and Margaret Carrico.

Outstanding District Award – District 2 C-Shift, led by District Chief Mike Frost. Leadership Awards: Captain Mike Nipp and Captain Terence Thedford. Phoenix Award (Citizen’s Life Saving Award): Russell Smart and Sammy Edgar – Called 911 and rescued occupant from burning house; Kirby Lee – Rescued occupant from burning garage.

Teamwork Award: Chad Baker, Josh Brannen, Adam Dixon, John Rains, Greg Allen, Matt Ford, Daniel Ledkins, and Andrew McCuistion – Engine 1-C and Ladder 1-C: Pin-in rescue at S. Glenwood and Front St.