Last night, the City of Bloomington Fire Department celebrated their bravest at the annual Department Awards Ceremony held at City Hall. The evening was a testament to the tireless service and dedication these firefighters and supporting staff contribute to their community. Acknowledging achievements and honoring memories, the ceremony was both a commemoration and a reminder of the courage woven into the fabric of Bloomington's public safety.
Opening the event, Lieutenant Ray Cazee delivered the opening prayer, while Lieutenant Brandon Hudson presented the prestigious "Robert Loviscek Service Award". According to the department's social media post, Mayor Kerry Thomson joined the ceremony, supporting the tradition with her presence, Mayor Thomson was thanked for consistently making time for the department's events
This year the ceremony carried a poignant moment of remembrance for four past members of BFD who passed away in 2025: Donnie Pardue, Albert Clemons, Chester Axsom, and Charles Titus. In addition to honoring lost heroes, the department also recognized two recently retired veterans with the Veteran Service Award, given to Capt. Stephen Weaver, and Chauffeur/Sgt. Stan Pfeiffer.
Among the night's standouts, several firefighters received awards for exceptional service. Capt. Matt Muehling was decorated with an Administrative Citation and Capt. Josh Blackwell received a Commendation Citation. A team composed of Capt. Cameron Deckard, Chauffeur Zach Brinson, Capt. Vic Vollrath, FF1 Matthew Greene, and MIH/Community EMTs Lily Blackwell and Shyanne Hunter were all awarded the Lifesaving Award for their critical roles in EMS services. Demonstrating the same high-stakes valor, Capt. Jayden Elkins, Chauffeur Justin Webb, Sgt/Engineer Nolan Rogers, and FF1 Davis Beckham received the Lifesaving Award for Fire/Rescue.
Recognition also extended to non-uniformed members of the fire service; public safety IT support Justin Goodwin received the Civilian of the Year honor. The integral work of behind-the-scenes health practitioners was championed as Shelby VanDerMoere took home the Mobile Integrated Healthcare Provider of the Year award. Chauffeur Marty Cornwell, not only received the Robert Loviscek Service Award, but he was also honored for Meritorious Conduct, proving his commitment on multiple fronts.
Capt. Matt Muehling earned a significant commendation as he was officially recognized as the Mark Webb Officer Of the Year. Meanwhile, the Bernard Glover Firefighter of the Year title was presented to FF1 Logan Jackson after distinguishing himself among an assembly of equally deserving nominees.
