The ceremony will take place at 6:30 p.m. on Dec. 2, at the Sunset Bay Fire Department located at 12798 Allegheny Road. Not only is the ceremony expected to contain some special words from local figures, but it will also see the American Legion’s 2025 Northeast National Firefighter of the Year award go to Chief Robert Weiskerger of the Sunset Bay Volunteer Fire Dept. This follows numerous other awards that have been dedicated to Weiskerger for his incredible bravery at a fire on Oct. 1, 2023.

The fire that Weiskerger is being awarded for in particular is the fire that occurred at the Tri-County Country Club that was previously located on Route-39 in Forestville. According to Chautauqua County American Legion Commander and Chair of the Public Safety Committee Jeff Levandoski, firefighters observed a large structural fire that had engulfed the kitchen area and a vehicle on fire upon arriving. While volunteers would begin to stretch hoselines, Weiskerger began to gear up to enter the building. The goal of Weiskerger entering was not only to attempt to extinguish the flames, but also to search for the potential owner of the vehicle that was on fire. Both Chief Weiskerger and former chief Barthel would then enter the building. While in the building, Levandoski stated that the men were subjected to extreme heat, unbearable smoke, and fiery conditions. It would be while the two men were inside the building that the roof would collapse in from the fire weakening the building’s structure. Despite the roof having collapsed, Weiskerger waited inside the building to ensure that Barthel would be able to make it to safety. Weiskerger would later state that he did so because he was not willing to leave a fellow firefighter behind in danger.

When the two men would emerge, their gear and suits would be on fire. Crews outside quickly rushed to extinguish the two men, but not before both suffered intense burns. Weiskerger would sustain second-degree burns to his right shoulder and right arm. Former chief Barthel would receive first-degree burns to his right arm and second-degree burns to his right hand. Levandoski noted that the efforts of Weiskerger that day not only saved his own life, but the life of Barthel as well.

Weiskerger has previously been awarded with the county, the 8th district, and the state/department awards for firefighter of the year. These awards were first necessary for Weiskerger’s consideration for the national-level award, said Levandoski. Community residents are encouraged to give their support in any way possible, and are welcome to attend the ceremony. For any further information contact 716-934-4880.