Palm Bay Fire Rescue Chief James Stables Recognizes Award Winners For Outstanding Service

By  //  May 2, 2017

Palm Bay Fire Rescue announced the 2016 annual award winners for outstanding service. “We have firefighters who have done significant things in the community, heroic efforts and heroic acts,” said Chief James Stables. “I am proud to say that each year we have several firefighters and staff members who have exceeded the call of duty.” (Palm Bay Fire Rescue image)

BREVARD COUNTY • PALM BAY, FLORIDA – Palm Bay Fire Rescue announced the 2016 annual award winners for outstanding service.

Each year the department recognizes the men and women who are considered the best of the best and truly representative of the enthusiasm, capabilities and professionalism of the agency.

“We have firefighters who have done significant things in the community, heroic efforts and heroic acts,” said Chief James Stables.

“I am proud to say that each year we have several firefighters and staff members who have exceeded the call of duty.”

PALM BAY FIRE RSCUE AWARD WINNERS FOR OUTSTANDING SERVICE

CONNIE BERGNER – CIVILIAN OF THE YEAR

CONNIE BERGNER – CIVILIAN OF THE YEAR: Connie Bergner is responsible for administrative and clerical support for multiple department personnel and the timely and accurate submission of payroll for the shift-based operations of the fire department, which she professionally and consistently accomplishes. Bergner has been with the City since 2001, and is truly an invaluable asset.

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DRIVER/ENGINEER BRIAN MILLER – EMS PROVIDER OF THE YEAR
LT. JON ANTHONY – EMS PROVIDER OF THE YEAR

LT. JON ANTHONY AND DRIVER/ENGINEER BRIAN MILLER – EMS PROVIDERS OF THE YEAR: Lt. Jon Anthony and Driver/Engineer Brian Miller have been responsible for countless lives saved due to their willingness to embrace challenges they face and execute flawlessly under pressure.

As members of a coordinated police/fire tactical team, they were instrumental in a rescue operation last year, ultimately saving a victim who was gravely injured, and receiving a life-saving medal by the Police Department this year for their actions. These personnel commit countless hours to refining their life-saving skill sets through training, education and competition.

DISTRICT CHIEF RICHARD STRICKLAND – FIRE OFFICER OF THE YEAR

RICHARD STRICKLAND, DISTRICT CHIEF – FIRE OFFICER OF THE YEAR: Richard Strickland has been with the Fire Department since 1992, and was promoted to District Chief in 2014. The Fire-Rescue Department has gone through significant turnover in recent years due to many retirements, and District Chief Strickland has transitioned to his new role as a District Chief well while preparing others to step up and fill leadership voids before they occur.

He has been actively involved in the maintenance and readiness of our fire apparatus – coordinating with fleet services to ensure clear understanding of fire-rescue needs and challenges. District Chief Strickland embraces his responsibilities, working diligently until complete, regardless of his work schedule.

DRIVER/ENGINEER DOUGLAS “RANDY” SMITH – FIREFIGHTER OF THE YEAR

DOUGLAS “RANDY” SMITH, DRIVER/ENGINEER – FIREFIGHTER OF THE YEAR: Driver/Engineer Randy Smith has been with the Fire Department since 1986, serving as a Driver/Engineer since 1990 – considered by most in the Department to be the best Driver/Engineer in the organization.

He has consistently demonstrated a desire and ability to train others, and can be credited with the success of many seeking promotion to Driver/Engineer. As a consistent top performer, Driver/Engineer Smith demonstrates a positive attitude and professional competence that is appreciated and emulated by others.

Please join Chief Stables and his command staff in celebrating these personnel for their consistent outstanding performance, deserving of recognition.

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