VCFD selects its top firefighters for 2007

At a recent luncheon event, the Ventura County Fire Department announced its 2007 Firefighters of the Year, recognized outstanding employees and honored two firefighters and one civilian for their lifesaving actions.

Firefighters of the Year are Capt. Darin Anderson of Battalion 1, Capt. Gary Gallion of Battalion 2, Battalion Chief Jim Arledge of Battalion 3, Capt. Mike Milkovich of Battalion 4, and Capt. Dave Zimmerman of Battalion 5.

Company of the Year is Engine 57 (Somis) C-Shift: Capt. Mark Karr, Engineer Stan Ziegler and Firefighter Nick Pisciotta.

Lifesaving Awards went to Capt. Tom Retan, Station 33 in Lake Sherwood, for his actions aiding a person who had stopped breathing, and Dan Rogers, a Newbury Park resident, for his assistance to a car accident victim.

Meritorious Service Award went to Firefighter Robert Thietji, Station 54 (Camarillo) for his rescue of a fellow firefighter in high surf during a water rescue call.

Employees of the Year are James Allen of Support Services Bureau, Katy Hadduck of Emergency Services Bureau, Jeff Dalrymple of Fire Communications and IT, and Capt. Barry Parker of Fire Prevention Bureau.