Last Friday (2/27/26) evening the District #1 Firefighters Association held it’s annual awards banquet at the Airport Ridge Sporting Clays lodge. Members enjoyed a meal and fellowship, along with a presentation by Suzanne Snyder from Legacy of Honor. The presentation focused on first responder mental health and the resources available to those in need.
The evening concluded with a review of 2025, including the successes of new Firefighters, EMT’s, Paramedics, & Instructors.
Years of Service awards were given to the following:
Trisha Kick – 5 Years
Logan Gallion – 10 Years
Jared Durstine – 15 Years
Brian Rafferty – 15 Years
Caleb Taylor – 15 Years
Firefighter of the Year – Logan Gallion
FF/Medic Gallion has completed several technical rescue courses over the last couple years and has helped build an inventory of new and updated rescue equipment. FF/Medic Gallion obtained his Fire & Emergency Services Instructor certification from the Ohio Fire Academy and Haz-Mat Technician certification in 2025.
Officer of the Year – Lt. Ryan Peterman
Lt. Petermen is in charge of grant writing for the District. In 2025, Holmes Fire District #1 was able to obtain over $75,000 in various grants, including $42,000 from the State Fire Marshals Grant used for new MARCS radios. Lt. Peterman received his Ohio Fire Officer credential from the Ohio Fire Chiefs Association in 2025.
EMT of the Year – Nick Frieden
FF/Medic Frieden always provides excellent patient care and conducts himself professionally with all involved. FF/Medic Frieden also manages our EMS supply inventory and is constantly looking for new equipment to provide better patient care and make the job safer for responders.
