Multiple firefighters were recognized recently for their bravery and commitment to the West Liberty Fire Department during the agency’s annual banquet, that also commemorated the commitment of folks supporting the first responders behind the scenes.
The event is intended to show appreciation for those past and present volunteers who have served on the fire department, and to commemorate years of service milestones for current volunteers.
Ray Siegenthaler was recognized as the firefighter of the year. Lieutenants Ryan Pratt, Greg Huffman and Mark Bowman were each recognized for 10 years of service.
Firefighters Bill Alig and Jake Vitt were also recognized for 30 years and 10 years, respectively, of volunteer service to the West Liberty Fire Department.
Special recognition was also paid to the firefighters’ significant others who support the volunteer fire department throughout the year.
“Without their support, the job would be twice as difficult,” organizers report. “They are the ones we lean on after a call, the ones who make sure a dinner plate is made and awaiting your return home and the ones that pickup the slack around home while we’re out helping others.
“Thank you isn’t enough for those amazing individuals that stand behind our volunteers, but we appreciate them more than they will ever know.”