Master of Ceremonies Ed Hoene and Chief Keith Bean, with help from representatives of local fire departments and government officials, recognized several members for their service. Honored for 35 years service were Ken Blitz and Jon Payne. Both men were presented wall clocks commemorating their service.

Rick Swanson was honored for 30 years of service.

Others received pins for years of service, and several new members were recognized, and thanked for helping to continue the Kennedy Fire Department’s tradition of service.

Several members received new gear in honor of advanced training they have completed.

Brendon Swanson, who responded the most calls in 2019, his father Cory Swanson, an EMT and department officer, grandfather Robert Swanson, lifetime member of the department, and great-grandfather James Wiltsie who is pictured in the photo held by Cory and Bob Swanson, an early member of the department. Photo by Rose Mary Carver

This year, Bean awarded several members for their efforts in 2019. Brendon Swanson was noted for responding to the most calls, 247 out of a total of 341 for all of 2019. He is the fourth generation of his family to serve in the department. EMT of the year for 2019 is Chris McKinley, and fireman of the Year for 2019 is Rick Swanson. Chief Bean lauded both men for their years of service.

As part of the greater area as a whole, the Kennedy Fire Department is always seeking ways they can help others, as people of this area continue to support them for all their efforts.