On a normal day, Pvt. Kathy Rickheim considers herself to be one of the guys. But Tuesday was anything but normal.
She was recognized for her hard work and dedication to the Toledo Fire and Rescue Department.
Badge No. 1 is presented to the most senior firefighter or firefighter-paramedic on the job. Rickheim joined the department in 1988 and received her paramedic certification in 1990.
She said she never imagined getting this badge, even after nearly 32 years in the department.
"It's a tough job and I've never had a position outside of working on the line. And, I do consider myself a role model to stick it out every day, every third day to come to work and being that it is such a tough job, yes females can do this job," Rickheim said.