Fort Lauderdale Fire-Rescue Celebrates 2nd Annual Medals Day and Badge Ceremony

By Assistant Fire Chief John Molenda

Photos by Doug Eaton

The three-hour event, which was birthed in 2010, recognized all of the brave men and women who went above and beyond the call of duty in the course of the 2010 calendar year. An after-party, which was sponsored by the Firefighter’s Benevolent Association, was held directly afterward at the FBA Hall and offered free food, beverages, bounce houses, pony rides and a host of other activities for both children and adults. In addition to awarding over 100 Unit Citations, five Employee Excellence and three Bronze Medals of Valor, the department also recognized its’ Firefighter of the Year, Employee of the Year, the “Fire Chief’s Pick” Employee of the Year, fire promotions, years of service, new hires and outstanding attendance. Retirees were applauded and a special moment of silence was observed for those who lost their lives in the year 2010. 

Special recognitions and commendations were also awarded for “Civilian of the Year”, and the “First African-American Firefighter” to be hired by the department. The Department’s Special Ops teams were also recognized for members of HazMat, TRT, ARFF, Marine Rescue and SWAT. Three Fort Lauderdale Police Officers were also commended for their acts of bravery during a structure fire, which saved the life of a victim.