Members of the Atlantic Fire Department held their annual recognition banquet last Saturday night. During the event, Iowa Firefighters Past President Cliff Renslow presented certificates to Gene Schmeling for 25 years of service, Dustin McLaren for 20 years, and Russell Peck for 30 years. The Department also recognized Trent Cappel and Bob Reynolds for 15 years of service.

Alex Smith was awarded the Rookie of the Year award. Tom Cappel was awarded Firefighter of the Year, the highest award given by the department to a firefighter.

In a statement, Atlantic Fire Chief Mark McNees said, ‘’ The firefighters recognized [Saturday night] are all very integral parts of the department and have demonstrated their commitment their entire careers. Without members like them, the AFD could not function.”

Tom Cappel – Firefighter of the Year

From left to right (Gene Schmeling, Dustin McLaren, Russell Peck and IA Firefighters past President Cliff Renslow (Pics courtesy Mark McNees)

Alex Smith – Rookie of the Year