Over 100 volunteer firefighters and emergency responders from Central Alabama were honored in a special recognition ceremony held on the campus of Faulkner University recently.

In conjunction with the 6th Annual Alabama Firefighter Memorial Service, the Alabama Sports Festival presented the Medal of Service and the Medal of Sacrifice to emergency responders and firefighters on Oct. 26.

The medal ceremony honored both professional and volunteer firefighters and EMS personnel for their years of service to their community and their state, according to Brantley Fire Chief Harry Driggers.

“This was made possible by a Resolution that was passed by both Houses of the Alabama Legislature and signed by Gov. Riley in March,” he said.

Qualified recipients for the Medal of Service are active, retired, or relatives of those who are deceased, and who have served at least 10 years in their respective fields.

Thousands have received these medals at the Opening Ceremonies of the Alabama Sports Festival State Games and other ceremonies similar to the one held in Montgomery.

Among those who spoke at the special ceremony included Chauncey Wood, president of the AAVFD; Ed Paulk, State Fire Marshall; Montgomery Mayor Todd Strange; Sen. Wendell Mitchell, and Rep. John Knight.

From the Brantley Fire Department, those receiving medals for ten years of service or more included Fire Chief Harry Driggers with 44 years; Asst. Chief David Catrett with 43 years; Captain Wayne Blackmon with 43 years; Captain Paul Woolley with 25 years; Asst. Chief Jimmy Johnson with 24 years; Lt. Donnie Wilkerson with 17 years; Captain Mickey Hudson with 15 years; Lt. John Williams with 15 years; Lt. Jody Smith with 13 years; and Lt. Brent Mitchell with 11 years. Also receiving a medal was Captain Sylvia Davis with Brantley Rescue, with 20 years of service.