For 6 years now, the department has been handing out awards for amazing rescues, life saving skills and of course, firefighter of the year. Each year, the committee bases their decision on things such as dedication, personality, attitude and the drive for the person(s) to go the extra mile.
This year Justin Snyder walked away with the award and more for his dedication to the department and community.

As part of his dedication to the department, he was given the Chief’s Award for being very proactive in obtaining grants for equipment purchases for the department.

Because his attitude was positive all year long, he worked hard for the grants on his own and stayed involved in the department, Snyder was more than deserving of the award.

Life Saving Awards

The fire department is not a part of the actual EMS system, but do assist on a multitude of runs all year long. From the simple fall to critical medical emergencies, Churubusco Firefighters are called to action. And each year a few people are lucky enough to have saved a life.

Some of these men and women have received these awards before and for some it’s their very first time. By applying their knowledge, skills and abilities, a few Churubusco community members are alive today.

One incident took place at the Churubusco P.D. where a woman was found unconscious in a vehicle and the other took place at a residence.

These men and women deserve great recognition for the work that they do day in and day out assisting the Whitley County EMS system.

Congratulations Ted and Tim on a job well done!

Award of Heroism

On January 18, 2006 Rinker was dining with his wife Amy and son Cameron when he was alerted by other people of an unresponsive man. After further evaluation, Rinker discovered the man had choked on food and passed out. Ironically, Rinker had been certified in CPR and the Heimlich maneuver. Ben acted quickly using his newly acquired skills and performed the Heimlich on the man clearing the obstructed airway.

Awards of Heroism

Firefighters Matt Straub, Chris Tomlinson, Tadd Shively, Ron Slagal and Jim Horne were honored December 11 th at an awards ceremony for saving the life of Tyler Fingerle.

On September 12 th 2006 emergency personnel responded to Bryie Road on a report of a vehicle accident with injuries. On arrival three patients were located outside of a vehicle that was sitting beneath power lines. It was confirmed that 2 of the 3 patients were dead on arrival and efforts were made to rescue of Fingerle from touching the downed power lines. All five firefighters put their lives on the line to rescue Fingerle and Monday he and his family joined the department for dinner and presentation of the awards to the firefighters.

Chief’s Award

Wade Bogard (left) and Ron Slagal were honored December 11 th at an awards ceremony at the fire station.

Both men served as the department training officers for 2006 and set a goal of at least 1 training a month for the year. These two men far exceeded that goal with a total of 16 department trainings and the training of 5 new recruits.

For their outstanding efforts this year, they were presented the Chiefs Award which stands for outstanding achievement and going beyond the call of duty for the department.