For the Sister Bay/Liberty Grove and Brussels-Union-Gardner fire departments, January is the perfect time to honor the men and women who keep their communities safe every day of the year. The departments hosted annual celebrations over the weekend, celebrating promotions, retirements, and special awards for those who went above and beyond their service to the community. In Sister Bay, Fire Chief Chris Hecht announced two promotions among his ranks. Thirty-three-year veteran Jim Appel was elevated to the rank of captain with the department, while 26-year veteran Bob Lang was promoted to lieutenant.  

Other awards were given to Carol Forner (Community Service Award), Judy Pluff (EMR of the Year), Vance Hecimovich (Firefighter of the Year), and Britt Frazier (Chief's Choice). Hecht says he is proud to serve with these men and women because of the example they set in the community.

In Brussels, nine individuals were celebrated for their milestone anniversaries with the BUG Fire Department, including Mark DeKeyser and Jim Wautier, who have both been serving the community for 40 years. The department also recognized retiring firefighter James Kluth, Jr. for his 21 years with BUG Fire and Mark Jandrin with the Golden Axe Award.