Humboldt first responders honored in ceremony
Magnolia Manor owner and Humboldt Rescue Squad volunteer Lee Sands delivers some opening remarks.
Last Tuesday, Magnolia Manor and Chapel hosted a ceremony to honor the men and women of Humboldt’s first responder organizations for the life-saving work they do in and around the community. The event was attended by numerous city officials, citizens, and of course members of the Humboldt Police Department, Humboldt Fire Department, and the Humboldt Area Rescue Squad.
Following a brief introduction from Magnolia Manor owner and HARS volunteer Lee Sands; an opening invocation from HFD Chaplain Lee Cook; and remarks from Mayor Marvin Sikes, individual awards were presented by each organization to members in recognition of their bravery, commitment, and professionalism.
The HFD was the first group recognized, with Fire Chief Greg Lencioni acknowledging two members of the fire department for their service. He began by recognizing Firefighter Jonathan Strow as the department’s Firefighter of the Year.
“Firefighter Strow has done a tremendous job in community service,” said Lencioni. “Whether it’s responding to a structure fire, medical calls, he embodies what it truly means to wear this uniform with pride.”
Lencioni then presented the Fire Officer of the Year award, which came down to a tie. The honor was awarded jointly to Captain John Ballinger and Lieutenant Austyn Rogier.
“They’ve shown time and time again that leadership isn’t about rank, it’s about responsibility, integrity, and compassion,” said Lencioni. “Their dedication reminds us that excellence in the fire service isn’t achieved alone. It’s built through teamwork, training, and heart.”
Lencioni also congratulated Kera Little for becoming the department’s newest emergency medical responder (EMR).
Chief Kenny Rich of the police department handing out Lifesaving Awards to Sgt. Joel Cooper, Officer Keith Prince, and Officer Jonathan Reed for their actions in defusing a shooting incident on Front St. in May of this year.
“What is a hero? Well, according to Webster, a hero is a mythological or legendary figure, often by descent, empowered with great strength or ability. A warrior,” said Rich. “A person of might for achievement and noble qualities. Or one who shows great courage. When I think about that, I think about the police officers that put on a vest every day. They are heroes.”
Rich also presented a Lifesaving Award to SRO Dennis Bowens for his courageous actions in extinguishing a propane tank fire. Rich praised Bowens’ resourcefulness in putting out the blaze despite not having any firefighting tools on hand.
The Humboldt Area Rescue Squad was the final group of the night. Director Jerry Privitt presented the Earl Privitt/Randy Jones Excellence Award to HARS member Steven Dolan.
“He’s eager to learn,” said Privitt. “He’s ready to teach some classes with us. To make us better. Hopefully for all of us. To make us all better.”
Following the conclusion of the event, attendees met downstairs for a mix-and-mingle featuring refreshments.
LIFESAVING AWARDS – HPD Chief Kenny Rich (far left) presents Sgt. Joel Cooper (center left), Officer Keith Prince (center right), and Officer Jonathan Reed with Lifesaving Awards for their actions during an active shooter situation earlier this year.
LIFESAVING AWARDS – SRO Dennis Bowens was presented a Lifesaving Award for his actions in extinguishing a propane tank which was engulfed in flames.
EARL PRIVITT/RANDY JONES EXCELLENCE AWARD – HARS Director Jerry Privitt (left) and EMS Captain Richard Duncan (center) presented the organization’s highest award to member Steven Dolan.
OFFICERS OF THE YEAR – Lieutenant Austyn Rogier (center left) and Captain John Ballinger (center right) were jointly awarded the department’s Officer of the Year award.
FIREFIGHTER OF THE YEAR – HFD Chief Greg Lencioni (left) and Assistant Chief Leroy Kail (right) named Johnathan Strow the department’s Firefighter of the Year.
