Huntsville Fire & Rescue (HFR) recently recognized the exceptional contributions of its firefighters during a promotions and awards ceremony. The event celebrated career advancements and acts of heroism, showcasing the department’s commitment to excellence and service.
Honoring Career Advancements
The ceremony highlighted significant milestones for HFR personnel. Fourteen drivers advanced to captain, 28 firefighters earned promotions to drivers, and two were elevated to assistant fire marshal. These advancements reflect the dedication and professionalism of the team.
Promotions List
Captains: Nicholas Campbell, Zachary Garner, Trevor Harrison, Clarence Heater, Michael Mahoney, John McNeal, William Moon, Ian Murphy, Ricky Parker, Brett Reynolds, Adam Sisk, Werner Schilloff, Dustin Weeks, Jackie Wolfe.
Drivers: Luke Armstrong, Joshua Berry, Arik Caballero, Tanner Carner, Tim Dickson, William Edwards, Nicholas Gates, Collin Gifford, Thomas Harris, Seth Holland, Richard Keslo, Andrew King, Alex Mann, Derek McCulley, Taylor McNeese, Joshua Medlen, Zachary Miller, Nicholas Nazario, Jessie Pierce, William Roberson, Jennifer Satterfield, Donald Stone, Jared Terry, Merrick Thrailkill, Eric Weatherford, Jalen Wesley, Timothy Williams.
Assistant Fire Marshals: Joseph Gardner, Jacob Zerfoss.
Celebrating Acts of Heroism
In addition to promotions, HFR recognized firefighters for their extraordinary acts of bravery and teamwork.
Medal of Valor
The Medal of Valor was awarded to Zachary Whitt, Conner Bray, Christopher Wilson, and posthumously, Thomas Yother, for their heroic actions during an active shooter incident. This event involved two injured Huntsville Police officers. Thomas Yother’s son, Driver Engineer Evan Yother, accepted the medal on his behalf.
Company Performance Award
The Company Performance Award acknowledged the exceptional teamwork of Jimmy Mills, Whitt, Bray, Wilson, and Yother (posthumously) during the same incident.
Lifesaver Award
Capt. Seth Hardiman received the Lifesaver Award for saving high school basketball player Kyler Trice during a game. After Kyler became unresponsive, Hardiman performed mouth-to-mouth resuscitation while nurse Stacy Johnson administered CPR. Their quick actions restored Kyler’s pulse, and he and his family personally thanked Hardiman on stage.
A Day of Pride for HFR
HFR Chief Howard McFarlen expressed his pride in the honorees, stating, “This is a proud day for Huntsville Fire & Rescue. It is an honor to recognize those who have gone the extra mile to earn promotions along with the courageous responses by our firefighters.”
The ceremony demonstrated HFR’s unwavering commitment to hard work, bravery, and community service, inspiring both its team and the public it serves.
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