Hammond Honors Firefighters, EMS

HAMMOND - For one evening each year, local fire departments are able to let down their guard for a few hours and reflect on the achievements and successes of a year gone past.

First Assistant Chief Arthur Howie III was named Fireman of the Year (FOY) Saturday evening, as the Hammond Volunteer Fire Department celebrated the accomplishments of 2009 at its annual awards banquet, held for the first time in many years at the Hammond Fire Hall.

"He runs a lot of calls, is present at all the meetings and work details - plus, he's a big organizer of our chicken barbecue," said Chief Leonard Bickelhaupt of Mr. Howie, noting that the FOY is voted on by secret ballot by all members of the department.

Mr. Howie is a 13-year member of the department, according to Chief Bickelhaupt.

Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Captain Tisa Martin was named EMS Provider of the Year."Also elected by membership," said Chief Bickelhaupt. "A very active member." Mrs. Martin has been with the department for nine years.

When it came time to present the Fran Boland award - the department's tribute to Francis Boland Sr., a young firefighter who passed away in 2003 - Chief Bickelhaupt called the name of his son, Cody A. Bickelhaupt.

"This award is presented annually to a young, enthusiastic firefighter who is eager to please, like Fran was," Chief Bickelhaupt said.

The younger Mr. Bickelhaupt, according to the chief, is a commuting college student who makes every effort to get to every call and function. "He's always willing to help," Chief Bickelhaupt added.

Department President Michael Martin continued the family theme, joining his wife Tisa (EMS award) in garnering the Chief's Award.

"Mike is a behind the scenes kind of guy," said Chief Bickelhaupt. "He does a lot of paperwork, handles all the mail, and runs our meetings. Its a very thankless job. This is our thanks to him."

Several department members were recognized for years of service, including two 25-year members, Rick Bass Sr. and Don Ceresoli Jr. Ten-year certificates went to Mr. Martin and Grant Prudhomme, with Jeff Mann and Eric Putney achieving 10-year status.

Auxiliary Chief Robin Bickelhaupt presented auxiliary years-of-service certificates to Jamie Wilkenson, Penny Youngs, and herself for five years of service to the auxiliary. Michelle Mann garnered the Auxiliary Chief's Award for her double duties as both auxiliary secretary and treasurer.