The Park Forest Fire Department will hold its annual award ceremony this Saturday, Feb. 22, at Freedom Hall beginning at 11 a.m. The event highlights outstanding acts of service exhibited by members of the Fire Department over the past year. 

Among the top awards to be taken home is the Firefighter of the Year Award. The annual award is given to a member of the department who exemplifies the characteristics of a firefighter with an outstanding record of fire service achievements.

This award is open to all ranks of the Park Forest Fire Department. The recipient of the award is selected by the awards committee, which consists of fellow firefighters. Candidates will be discussed extensively before a recommendation is made to the fire chief for final approval.

The annual award is given to someone who exemplifies the characteristics of a firefighter with an outstanding record of fire service achievements. Those firefighters who have received awards for valor, honor, life-saving, commendation, merit, and citation awards will be automatically considered.

Park Forest Fire Deputy Chief Mark Contrano had this to say about the importance of the Firefighter of the Year Award.

"This award is important because it recognizes their hard work, quick thinking, intelligent reactions, and care for our residents and their property," Contrano said. "Many of the decisions made are made during life and death situations, and it is important to showcase to our residents what the Village's fire department is willing to do to protect them."

Residents are encouraged to attend this free event to show their support for the Park Forest Fire Department. Freedom Hall is located at 410 Lakewood Boulevard.