Scott Swanson
Of The New Era
Local firefighters were recognized at the Sweet Home Fire and Ambulance District 2005 Awards Dinner Saturday evening at the Jim Riggs Community Center.
Fire Chief Mike Beaver noted that this year is shaping up to be the busiest in the department’s history, with close to 700 calls since Jan. 1. Last year, he said, SHFAD responded to 1,960 medical and 252 fire calls.
“We’re doing this with the same people,” he said, noting that the added call load means more work for paid and volunteer medics and firefighters.
Sam Posthuma, who joined the department last year, was named Firefighter of the Year. Last year’s recipient Ken Weld, who made the presentation, cited Posthuma’s leadership and dedication to the department as reasons for his selection.
“It became very obvious to me in a short amount of time that this individual was dedicated to being the best he could be,” said Weld, who is one of the trainers for new arrivals in the department.
Shannon Pettner was named Medic of the Year. Presenter Doug Emmert observed that 80 to 90 percent of the department’s call volume is for medical emergencies. He said Pettner has handled many of those calls, kept the department’s supplies well stocked, and has taught classes in CPR and other topics for department staff.
“This may just be the most prestigious award that we give,” Emmert said.
Other awards recipients included Rookie of the Year Chris Forum, Engineer of the Year George Virtue, Officer of the Year Dave Trask and Rescue Technician of the Year Jared Richey.
Bob Pickett was given the Keith Gabriel Humanitarian Award, named after the first recipient of that honor.
Trask was recognized by Battalion Chief Guy Smith as the longest-serving current department member – 33 years.
Beaver cited Ken Turner, whom he described as a quiet individual who “comes to more fires than a lot of people,” and Dave Barringer, who is responsible for vehicle maintenance, for special recognition for their efforts on behalf of the department. Barringer, he said, keeps the “aging fleet” of apparatus operating – a “thankless job.”
“He always takes a lot of garbage from people when things don’t go right,” Beaver said.
Barringer recognized the contributions of mechanic Ray Stratman to keeping the vehicles operating.
Department Chaplain Steve McGuyre praised the department members for their dedication to saving lives.
“Most people in their lives experience some traumas,” he said. “You experience all the traumas” that happen locally. You guys have cared for the people of this town from top to bottom. I’ve heard that you treat all of them equally.”