Cyrus named Firefighter of the Year

Cloverdale Rural Fire District awards for 2004 were presented last month at the annual volunteer awards banquet held at Robby J’s Restaurant in Bend, according to Cloverdale Fire Chief Charles “Chuck” Cable.

Matt Cyrus was named the 2004 Firefighter of the Year for his performance of duty, service and dedication, and earning respect of other volunteers. Cyrus also was recognized as Officer of the Year.

Special lifesaving recognition awards went to three volunteers — Matt Cyrus, Steve Pyke and John Thomas.

Last January, the three volunteers and two paramedics from the Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire Department responded to a call to aid an unconscious person.

Using lifesaving procedures, they were successful in keeping the person alive for transporting to a hospital where the person survived.

Rex Parks Sr. was presented the Outstanding Community Service Award for his volunteer service with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Oregon Hunters Association and for his service as a volunteer firefighter. Parks has had 100 percent attendance at training drills for eight years in a row.

This award was the fifth major district award presented to Parks during his time as a volunteer firefighter.

Spencer Cashwell was honored as Rookie of the Year. John Brown was recognized as Instructor of the Year. Other awards were presented for length of service, drill attendance, community service, special contributions to the fire district, and several “faux pas” awards for humorous events on the job.

Recipients of many awards will have their names engraved on plaques on display at the fire district office. The awards program opened with “Amazing Grace” played by bagpipes in memory of the 107 firefighters across the country who lost their lives in the line of duty in 2004.

In addition, names were read of local district personnel who have passed away while assisting thedistrict.