Annually, the fire department hosts an awards banquet which allows us the opportunity to recognize individuals for a job well done.  This dinner function is attended by retired firefighters, city council and the public safety committee.  We are also given the chance to thank our family and loved ones for the sacrifices that they make each time we are called to duty.

 

One of the awards given out yearly is the Meritorious Achievement Award.  This ribbon may be awarded for outstanding performance of duty under unusual circumstances.  The action need not involve exposure to physical danger, but should involve the protection of life or property.  These actions could evolve over a period of time.  These actions should involve: thoroughness, conscientiousness, determination, and initiative.  This award may also be given for meritorious action of a nature which would not be considered for a higher award.  Finally,  the award may be given to an individual of another fire department while assisting Auburn Hills.

 

Current members of the department who have received this award include:

Aguayo, Ron           Milks, Owen
Beckman, Jason      Moniz, Ron – 2x
Burmeister, John     Peterson, Craig
Chapman, Dale       Randolph, Tony
Farrell, Tim             Smith, Mike
Fisher, Mike            Walterhouse, Mark – 2x
Mack, Fred             Webb, Nelson
                             Wyatt, Randy – 2x

 

Also, the Optimist Club of Auburn Hills sponsors a “Firefighter of the Year” award.  Listed below are the winners of this award since 1987.

 

1987 Thomas C. Perry           1997 Tony Randolph
1988 Arthur Petersen             1998 Jon Toss
1989 Norman DeHaven          1999 Roger D. Farnsworth
1990 Jim Cavins                    2000 Michael Fisher
1991 Larry Smielewski           2001 Owen Milks
1992 Norval Jones                 2002 Jon Toss
1993 John W. Engi                 2003 Mike Smith
1994 Dennis E. Dearing Jr.     2004 Mike Strunk

1995 Andy Stadler                

1996 Gary Chapman