Fairbury Elks Lodge honors first responders during Flag Day Ceremony
FAIRBURY, NE — Fairbury taking the time to honor its first responders.
The town recognized individuals from its ambulance service, fire department and county sheriff’s office for their service to the community.
Each leader from their respective department got to nominate and present the award to someone they felt deserving.
From the Ambulance Service the recipient was Jeff Klaumann. Fairbury Ambulance Service director Alan Rosenthal says he is always willing to step up and lend a hand whether it be helping with paperwork or taking on an extra shift.
"He's just always been a real asset to our department," Rosenthal said. "He's always had a great attitude. Everyone loves working with him and he does an excellent job with the patients as well."
Fairbury Rural Fire Department Chief Kenny Klause nominated Josh Hemphill for their award. Klause says Hemphill — who is preparing to move to South Carolina — has demonstrated tremendous leadership while on the department.
"For instance, we had someone struggling in Firefighter 1 lass and [Hemphill] took it upon himself to help that person study and get through that Firefighter 1 program and prove how good a leader he really is," Klause said.
Jefferson County Sheriff Nick Georgi chose to honor Heather McCown. Georgi says McCown was working as a dispatcher in April when a report of a robbery came in. It evolved into a high speed chase across county lines. Georgi says McCown’s efforts were crucial to a timely and successful response.
"Heather presented an impeccable ability to take control of the situation and was able to keep a level head during the high-stress, high-priority call," Georgi said. "Because of her multi-tasking abilities, one of the suspects was apprehended and the injured employee received care that was required in a timely manner."
The recognition comes as part of the Fairbury Elks Lodge’s Flag Day Ceremony Tuesday night. Each award winner received a certificate from the Elks Lodge.