The annual Nappanee Fireman/EMT Awards Dinner recently took place at American Legion Post 154. Pictured from left are Larry Thompson, the former mayor, fireman and EMT, who presented the awards; Sandra Witt, co-EMT of the Year; Junior Mast, Nappanee Fire Department, co-recipient of the Delb Yoder Memorial Award; Alec Chapman, Nappanee Fire Department, co-recipient of the Delb Yoder Memorial Award; and Rod Newcomer, co-EMT of the Year. InkFreeNews photo by Dale Tobias

By Keith Knepp
InkFreeNews

NAPPANEE — The annual Nappanee Firemen/EMT’s Awards Dinner was held recently at the Nappanee American Legion, Post 154. Presenting the awards was former mayor, fireman and EMT Larry Thompson.

Each year, individuals are recognized with the EMT and Fireman of the Year awards by the city of Nappanee for their dedication to their respective departments.

This year, Junior Mast and Alec Chapman both were honored as the 2023 Firemen of the Year, receiving the “Delb Yoder Memorial Award.” Yoder served for many years on the Nappanee Fire Department and his memory is kept alive through this special award presentation each year.

This year, there were also two recipients for the annual EMT award. Rod Newcomer and Sandra Witt were both were honored for their service and dedication to the city of Nappanee in their duties as an emergency medical professionals, serving above and beyond the call of duty.