County announces Firefighter and Paramedic of the Year

Lt Jeremy Robshaw reported to Historic City News this morning that selections have been made to be recognized as this year’s Firefighter and Paramedic of the Year; selected from members of St Johns County Fire Rescue department, based on peer nominations, and decided by an appointed awards committee.

Both designees will be formally recognized during a department awards ceremony scheduled for 5:00 p.m. on December 12, 2013 in the St Johns County Auditorium located at 500 San Sebastian View in St Augustine FL. Several promotions and other commendations will be conveyed during the Thursday evening ceremony.

2013 Paramedic of the Year: Lieutenant Scott Bullard

During the past year, Lt Bullard has consistently represented the department and himself to the highest level possible. As an Officer in the Battalion assigned to Rescue 7, Scott uses very good judgment in managing not only his Station but assisting in running the Battalion as well. Scott is an accomplished medic, working on one of the busiest rescues in the county always managing to keep a positive attitude and maintain a consistent level of high quality EMS care.

According to Captain Kevin Winters, “I had several occasions this past year to observe Lt Bullard managing both medical and structure fire calls. He consistently managed the calls well by making appropriate medical care decisions, managing life safety hazards and mitigating the calls in a very safe and effective manner which has made a positive impact on the citizens involved as well as SJCFR.”

During the past year, Scott completed several personal goals including: obtaining his OUPV Captains License, Marine Rescue Specialist Certification, S-330 Widland Strike Team Leader, Fire Officer 2 and Fire Inspector 2 certifications.

2013 Firefighter of the Year: Firefighter Art Naidzich

It is said that “if we are what we repeatedly do, excellence, then, is not an act but a habit”. This statement truly describes Firefighter Naidzich who since has since his first day on the job has been an outstanding example of a high quality and dedicated employee.

Art has and unwavering positive attitude is always professional and maintains a positive attitude towards the job that is contagious. While learning new skills or reinforcing old, he is always ready and eager for training, taking constructive criticism and building from it.

During this past Memorial Day weekend, Art, along with his crew from Station 9, were involved in a busy day on the water. Dangerous surf conditions mixed with a holiday weekend made for a day filled with water rescue’s directly across from the station. Art’s previous training as an ocean lifeguard and current Marine Rescue training paid off.

During the past year, Art also completed several personal goals. Art successfully completed his Paramedic Certification and began work towards achieving his Fire Officer 1 Certification.