It’s that time of the year for Fire District 2 to recognize those who went the extra mile in 2002, and this year a rookie took home one of the top honors.

Among awards handed out at the Fire Fighters Appreciation dinner Jan. 31 were the firefighter of the year awards for the North and the South divisions. The awards are based on officer recommendations for those firefighters who attended the most training sessions and put forth an extra effort at their stations and other functions.

In his first year with District 2, Gregg Alanzo received the honors in North for his hard work and dedication.

“This is probably the first time somebody who’s only been there for a year has won the award,” Fire District 2 chief Marv Koorn said.

Alanzo was shocked when his name was called at the banquet.

“When I found out I got it that night it was disbelief,” Alanzo said. “I didn’t think that I really deserved it. I’m just having fun doing what I’m doing.”

A 10-year veteran, Steve Lacy, took home the award for the South division.

“He’s consistently been there for calls, training and other extra activities,” Koorn said.

Lacy, who has two sons who are also with the fire department, was honored to receive the award.

“I couldn’t do my job without the support of all the other firefighters,” Lacy said. “They’re the ones who actually make me look good, without them I wouldn’t have gotten this award, I wouldn’t be where I’m at with the fire department today.”

Other winners include Dave Hanson, Lyle Zimmerman and Julia Baxter, who received recognition for outstanding service. George Hiteshew received EMS provider of the year in the North, while Wayne Young was EMS provider of the year in the South. Appreciation was also shown toward Jon Pollack who helped set up and update the district web page.

Finally, Mick Lamar was honored for his hard work as chief of the North division, where he served 16 years. His position was lost when the district went from two chiefs to one late last year.