Seminole County Fire Department Celebrates 2025 Annual Awards Ceremony

The Seminole County Fire Department (SCFD) recently held is annual awards Ceremony at Action Church in Winter Park. The event was emceed by former long-time WESH 2 News reporter, Dave McDaniel. More than a dozen awards were given out to those who had gone above and beyond for the Department over the last year.

Longtime Central Florida resident and Fire Inspector, Bill Jensen, was honored with the “Pioneer Award,” which is presented to a member of the Department who has left a lasting legacy on the organization. With a career spanning 36 years of service, Jensen played a crucial role in the fire service as a Firefighter, Fire Inspector, and Fire Investigator. He achieved significant milestones, such as developing innovative fire prevention programs and earning prestigious awards for his dedication to public safety.

“He continuously goes above and beyond, taking the time to engage with community members, educate them on fire safety, and ensure that our prevention initiatives are effective and far-reaching. Bill leads not only with his words but also through his actions,” said nominator Fire Inspector Brian Kmak. “In a profession that demands resilience, adaptability, and a genuine desire to help others, Bill Jensen has answered that call time and time again. His commitment has left an indelible mark on our organization and the community we call home.”

Other awards: 

• Rookie Firefighter of the Year – Sergio Leyte-Vidal       
• Jimmy “Pedro” Cannon Firefighter of the Year – Marcus Bishop
• Paramedic of the Year – Brett Thompson       
• Frank J. Kucera Lieutenant of the Year – Anthony Bowman   
• Engineer of the Year - Jesse Crews 
• Chief Officer of the Year – Chad Chorak   
• Emergency Communications Employee of the Year – Lisa Manuel
• Fire Prevention Employee of the Year – Joshua Glennon   
• Fire Department Employee of the Year – Lakshmi Sankaran  

Community Service Award:

• Lt. Tom Mirisola    

Partnership Award:

• Action Church

Distinguished Service Medal:

• Lieutenant Anthony Bowman                       
• Engineer/Paramedic Travis Hagerty
• Firefighter/Paramedic Max Gallagher
• Firefighter/Paramedic Ed Schuster Jr.
• Firefighter Taylor Kennedy
• Firefighter Carter DeCuir

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About the Seminole County Fire Department (SCFD): The Seminole County Fire Department proudly serves a countywide population in Seminole County, Florida of nearly a half-million residents with 20 fire stations. SCFD is top ISO Class 1, Accredited by the Center for Public Safety Excellence (CFAI), and Commission on Accreditation  of Ambulance Services (CAAS) Accredited. SCFD provides emergency services to the unincorporated areas of the County and in the Cities of Altamonte Springs, Winter Springs and Casselberry. The Department has first response agreements in place with the Cities of Lake Mary, Longwood, Sanford, Oviedo and Orlando/Sanford Airport. Follow SCFD on social on Facebook (@SCFD.1974), Instagram at X (@SCFDPIO). For more information, visit www.seminolecountyfl.gov/firedepartment.