GETTING THEIR DUE:
Anderson Fire Protection District firefighters Phil McNeal, left, and Joel Covert, middle, were honored firefighters of the year by Chief Joe Piccinini at the Redding Exchange Club banquet.

Four South County fire districts honored their respective Firefighter of the Year recipients Thursday, May 1, at an awards banquet hosted by the Exchange Club.

Each honoree received a plaque engraved with the message: “In appreciation for your dedicated service and unselfish service in protecting our families and communities.”

A total of 11 firefighters from throughout Shasta County were honored at the fourth annual event, held this year at Win-River Casino.

“They’re selfless, courageous . . . and can’t get paid enough to do what they do,” Redding Exchange Club President Jim Jones said. “Our club is dedicated to public service, but it pales next to what they do.”

Anderson Fire Protection District

From Anderson Fire Protection District, Chief Joe Piccinini nominated Captain Phil McNeal and volunteer firefighter Joel Covert for awards.

McNeil is a 16-year veteran of the district and was nominated for his leadership skills for training and mentoring new recruits into fire service.

“It is under his direction,” said Piccinini, “that these new members become a valuable component to such a desired profession to the community they serve.”

Volunteer firefighter Joel Covert was also nominated because he volunteers an average of five hours a day at the firehouse. Covert has served with the district for two years.

“He’s always there,” Piccinini said. “Covert has a genuine concern for the community and the department and is willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done.”

Cottonwood Fire Protection District

Volunteers and staff at the Cottonwood Fire Protection District voted for Battalion Chief Calvin Ciapponi for their firefighter of the year. Ciapponi has worked with the Happy Valley Fire Protection District for twenty years before getting hired on with the Cottonwood district in 2006.

“We all voted based on what they’ve done for the department,” said district firefighter and administrator, Rodney Chadbon. “Since he’s been here, he’s put a lot into the department and a lot of extra hours. He’s been very supportive.”

Happy Valley Fire Protection District

Troy Burns was nominated as the firefighter of the year for the Happy Valley Fire Protection District by Chief Joe Vasquez.

“He’s the most active volunteer — way above everybody else,” Vasquez said.

In 2007, Burns responded to 161 alarms, 12 meetings, 21 regular trainings and 43 Sunday trainings.

“Troy has earned this award because of all his hard work and dedication to help our department and to help the community,” Vasquez said.