Hartland Firefighters Honored

During Friday's Hartland Deerfield Fire Authority awards ceremony, many of the local firefighters were recognized for their rescue efforts from the past year.

From structure fires to life saving efforts, citiations were awarded to many of the local firefighters including Gregg Schkade's CPR efforts during a fundraising event at Striking Lanes.

A special life saving award was presented to Sgt. Matt Whitmore who, while off-duty, helped save the life of a 3-year-old boy after a frantic woman pulled the toddler from Spring Mill Pond on at Island Lake Recreation Area in July.

During Friday night's ceremony, Fire Chief Adam Carroll read a letter from the father whose son was saved to the audience.

Firefighter Tamara Johnston was awarded a Meritorious Service award by Deputy Chief Mike Eckert for her efforts in the community and her "big heart."

"What our fire department has come to be is a result of what has happened in the past," he said, "our children growing up, fire safety in the schools, she is a true representation for what our department has become."

Carroll also presented the Firefighter of the Year award to 16- year veteran Lt. Terry Conklin.

Years of Service

5 years

• Capt. Mike Randall
• FF Zach Komlos
• FF Larry Wilson

10 years

• FF Sue Daniels
• FF Sean Kletzka
• FF Mark Langenstein
• FF Bryan White

15 years

• FF Mike Devitt

30 years

• DC Gregg Schkade

Promotions

• Firefighter: Ryan Bennett, Todd Murray and Jennifer Whitbeck
• Enginner: Dave Korponic and Mark Langenstein
• Aeriel Platform Operator: Keith Learmont
• Sergeant: Sean Kletzba, Rob Lehman and Gregg Schkade II
• Lieutenant: Jake Thompson