The Helena Fire Department and The Exchange Club of Helena announced David Gambill as their 2018 Firefighter of the Year on Thursday, October 18.
The award is now in its seventeenth year and it recognizes a firefighter who went above a beyond in their duties.
Nominees are submitted by their fellow firefighters before being voted on by the senior department staff.
Fire Chief Mark Emert said it was a unanimous decision to choose Gambill who often comes in during his free time to make sure all the vehicles are in top shape.
“He’s a great guy who always works with a smile,” said Emert, “I wish I had 36 of him at the department.”
Gambill, a 6 year Helena Fire veteran, said he’s humbled to receive the award and will continue to work to be a better fireman and person every day.
“It’s great to give back to people,” said Gambill, “So many people have helped me out along the way and I can kind of reciprocate that back into the community and it’s a good feeling to make a positive impact on someone’s life.”