On March 4th, 2023, Polk County Fire District No.1 personnel were recognized and honored for their efforts in 2022, at the Independence Elks Lodge. Polk 1 Fire Fighters Association President, Marie Hardwick, facilitated the event. The following individuals were recognized. 

Promotions to Engineer: Bo Camero and Travis Emerling

Promotions to Lieutenant: Brian Burchfield, Adam Chinnock and Brady Walters

5 Years of Service: FF Jose Chavez, Eng. Bo Camero, Eng. Travis Emerling, and Lt. Adam Chinnock

10 Years of Service: Physician Advisor Dr. Rebecca Lucas

15 Years of Service: Eng. James Mellein

25 Years of Service: Chaplain Bob McMillian, Lt. Ezra Hardwick and DC Neal Olson

30 Years of Service: Capt. Jason Johnson

Resident Volunteer of the Year - FF/Paramedic Rebekah Farrell

Rookie of the Year - FF Garrett Hardwick

Support Member of the Year - Chaplian Freddy Moran

Chiefs Award - DC Neal Olson

Instructor of the Year - Eng/Paramedic Austin Champ

Employee of the Year - Lukas Martin

Officer of the Year- Lukas Martin

Medic of the Year - FF/EMT Jeff Joles

Firefighter of the Year - Adam Chinnock