JC firefighters, emergency personnel, citizens honored with service awards

The Johnson City Fire Department honored firefighters, emergency personnel and community members during its third annual Service Awards ceremony. To celebrate first responders' and citizens' dedication to public safety, JCFD and city leaders presented awards Tuesday at Memorial Park Community Center, according to a JCFD press release. "These awards serve as a reminder of the remarkable people who serve this community, both in uniform and our residents," said City Manager Cathy Ball in a JCFD press release, who also served as the keynote speaker for the event. "Their actions reflect the strength, compassion, and character of Johnson City." JCFD presented Mart Breland and Randy Hatley with the Fire Chief Harry Gump Award, which recognizes civilians who place the safety and well-being of another above their own in the face of life-threatening danger, according to the release. The award commended the two community members for their actions on Nov. 11, 2025 at a house fire on East Pine Street. Prior to JCFD arrival, Breland and Hatley entered the home, located the occupant and got them to safety, according to the release. A dog was also rescued from the home during the incident. The resident was transferred to a hospital for burn treatment and smoke inhalation. Washington County 911 Dispatcher Cynthia Vanhoy also received a Letter of Commendation praising her composure and communication, which enabled a prompt and well-coordinated response by emergency personnel. "Our firefighters and emergency personnel consistently answer difficult calls with professionalism, compassion, and courage," said JCFD Chief David Bell in the release. "Tonight's awards recognize exceptional service within our department, teamwork among first responders, and the extraordinary actions of citizens who stepped forward to help someone in need." The department also honored four firefighters across various roles with awards: Firefighter of the Year – Lt. Ryan Weaver Company Officer of the Year – Lt. Kurt Bennett Driver/Engineer of the Year – William Vanover Nozzleman of the Year – Jorge Munoz The members of Engine 1 – Lt. Sam McLain, Driver/Engineer Tanner Tranbarger, and firefighters Robbie Simpson, Cody Norby, and Michael Murray – were recognized with a Company Citation for their exceptional response during cardiac arrest emergencies. Letters of Commendation were issued to officers of the Johnson City Police Department for the roles they played during the critical events.