By FireRescue1 Staff
WASHINGTON — The National Volunteer Fire Council has announced the winners of its annual fire service achievement awards.
The award recognizes fire service volunteers who have gone above and beyond in service to their department and community.
The 2024 award recipients:
- Stephen Austin: Lifetime Achievement Award, sponsored by Lincoln Financial Group;
- Chief John Swan Sr.: Chief James P. Seavey Sr. Health & Wellness Leadership Award, co-sponsored by VFIS and Ward Diesel Filter Systems;
- Joseph Valentino, Junior Firefighter of the Year, sponsored by California Casualty; and
- Inver Grove Heights Fire Department Explorer Program, Junior Firefighter Program of the Year, sponsored by California Casualty.
“We are honored to recognize members of the volunteer fire service and junior fire service each year for the amazing contributions they make to their departments and communities,” said NVFC Chair Steve Hirsch. “This year’s award winners showcase the many ways our nation’s volunteers give back, help their neighbors, and make their communities and departments safer, stronger, and better prepared.”
Austin, Swan and Valentino will be recognized at an awards ceremony taking place during the NVFC spring meeting on April 26 in Arlington, Virginia. The Inver Grove Heights Fire Department Explorer Program will be honored during a local ceremony.
To learn more about this year’s recipients, click here.