The Powderly Volunteer Fire Department recently recognized their stand-out volunteers for the past year at a department appreciation dinner.
Awarded for firefighter of the year was Tyler Bussell, and the first responder of the year was Jordan Thomas.
“These guys work hard throughout the year. They are prepared to answer the call to help at any given moment no matter what time of day it may be,” said department Chief Roger Bussell.
“I’m very proud of each member of this department. Not only do they make a great contribution to the community, but they also show great initiative to go above and beyond the call of duty for volunteers,” Chief Bussell further said.
Thomas, who has only been a member of the department for a year, said, “I am honored and very thankful for the community of Powderly. I am also extremely thankful for my fellow members of PVFD, who I also consider my family.”
Thomas was credited with responding to over 100 calls over the past year, according to PVFD PIO Officer Randi Johnson.
“Jordan has been a great addition to the department, and all members were very proud of her to win this year’s first responder award,” said Johnson.
Bussell, who claimed firefighter of the year award, has been with the department for 11-years and has also won this award more than once.
“I am honored to accept the firefighter of the year award, it’s truly an honor to be apart of this department,” said Bussell on the night.
“Each year at our appreciation dinner we as a department look forward to seeing who will be the recipients of the two awards because they are not just tallied by the number of call-outs or training volunteers attend, it’s primarily based on membership voting,” said Johnson.
