Stewart is Responder of the Year for Central

The Central Mat-Su Fire Department held its annual awards ceremony on March 31, at the new Station 51 off the Parks Highway. The awards are for responders who go above and beyond their duties as paid, on call personnel, and for individuals who contribute to the success of the department. Central is the second largest fire department in Alaska.

Chief James Steele also recognized the most important individuals, the responders' spouses and children who lend their spouse, mom or dad to the community to respond to emergencies at all hours. Without this sacrifice the system currently in place would fail.

Those recognized include:

Fire Department Auxiliary – Lee Hutchens-Kerr, Carol Kula, Cathy Garrick Karen Alden, Jim & Jo Eakin, Sherry Dimick, Sheryl Wagner, Stephanie Udy, Theresa Elliott, Taunnie Boothby, Mary Newcomb, Sam Coberly. 
Responder of the Year – Jessica Stewart (pictured with Central Chief James Steel & Mayor Larry DeVilbiss)

Mahlon Greene & Ken Barkely were recognized for their contributions over the last 20 plus years to the CMSFD. Mahlon recently took the Fire Chief Job in Caswell, and Ken moved to the Assistant Fire Director for the Borough.

There was a Flag Presentation from Major Ernest M. Ibanga, 2D Engineer Brigade Chaplin of the United States Army, Fort Richardson. The flag was flown in Afghanistan and dedicated to the Central Mat-Su Emergency responders.

Approximately 125 folks attended, including Borough Assembly Members Dan Mayfield, Jim Sykes, and Mayor DeVilbiss.

Most Valuable Explorer – Jimmy Keene
Most improved Firefighter – Katrina Knowlton
Most Valuable Firefighter – Chris Hanson
Most Valuable Engineer – Don Thomson
Most Valuable Lieutenant – Norm Wagner
Most Valuable Captain – Adam Schou

Photos by Battalion Chief Jon Burns.