Two Firefighters Awarded for Off-Duty Life-Saving Actions
At Tuesday night’s Board of Fire Commissioners meeting, two West Pierce Fire & Rescue employees received Merit Awards for courage displayed while off duty.
Captain Brian Johnson was on vacation when he jumped in to help someone experiencing cardiac arrest. Captain Johnson’s efforts led to a successful outcome for the patient.
Firefighter Josh McDowell assisted a neighboring fire department with a patient involved in a vehicle accident who was in cardiac arrest.
Captain Johnson and Firefighter McDowell exemplify a steadfast commitment to excellence, bringing credit to themselves and the organization.
Also at the meeting, West Pierce Fire & Rescue celebrated the retirements of Fire Chief Jim Sharp (40 years at WPFR) and Captain Art Rausch (23 years at WPFR). Chief Ryan McGrady was promoted as the department’s new Fire Chief.