South Whidbey Fire/EMS honored volunteer firefighters and emergency medical technicians during an awards dinner at Useless Bay Golf and Country Club.
Volunteers and staff responded to 2,697 calls during 2018, breaking records set for all previous years of emergency service.
The evening opened with a performance of patriotic songs by the South Whidbey High School choral group. Langley Police Department Acting Chief Donald Lauer gave a personal and inspiring speech, noting the partnership between law enforcement and all first responders.
Chief H.L. “Rusty” Palmer presented the Lifesaver Medal, one of the highest awards presented by South Whidbey Fire/EMS to Eldon Baker, Terry Welch, Ken Starkweather, Paul Shimada and Travis Zimmerman.
“This medal is given to those individuals who, without the direct assistance of any other person, saved the life of another,” said Palmer.