YFD event marks Fire Protection Week
Firefighter of the Year, other award winners also named
The Yuma Fire Department held an evening ceremony on Tuesday to mark the beginning of Fire Prevention Week, during which the exemplary performance, service and achievements of several firefighters and other emergency service personnel were also recognized.
Held at Fire Station No. 1, the commemoration began with the reading of a proclamation by Deputy Mayor Gary Knight, which designated the week of Oct. 8th through the 14th as Fire Prevention Week in Yuma. That was followed by a promotion ceremony conducted by Fire Marshall Kayla Holiman.
This year’s Support Person of the Year for the Yuma Fire Department is Stephanie Caraway, who was recognized for taking on an additional workload when one of the administrative positions was vacated for a few months.
“Stephanie does many other things, and her efforts are greatly appreciated,” her nomination form read. “Stephanie is always helpful and knows how to get things done.”
This year’s Firefighter of the Year for the Yuma Fire Department is Aaron Wonders, whose “happy to be here” work ethic, social skills and excellent customer service has not faltered during the five years he has served the residents of Yuma.
According to his nomination form, Wonders’ hard work and positive attitude are contagious, motivating those around him to smile and be more productive. “On scene Aaron easily builds rapport with patients and treats each and every citizen with kindness and respect, as if they were his own family.”
Wonders, who has also completed requirements to be on the engineer promotion list, was praised for being able to manage taking the lead on various projects with grace and skill, while still meeting his day-to-day station responsibilities and providing excellent customer service when duty calls.
Fire Engineer of the Year went to David Zanovitch, who was said to constantly lead by example.
“David is an extraordinary employee who works diligently to refine his trades as both an Engineer and Paramedic,” his nomination form read. “He pays careful attention to detail and always knows the nuances of his Engine.”
A skilled musician, Zanovitch is also a member of the United Yuma Firefighters Association Pipes and Drums band.
And finally, this year’s Fire Captain of the Year for the Yuma Fire Department is Brandon Case, who was described as being a constant professional who works well with co-workers and has shown a continuous commitment of not just meeting but exceeding the goals of the department.
“When he is rendering care on EMS scenes, his bedside side manner is second to none,” his nomination read. “Brandon truly strives to be a patient advocate, making sure that their needs are met and that everything that can be done for the patient is completed prior to leaving them.”
It continued by stating, “While working under difficult, stressful emergencies, he remains calm and has a command presence which brings about a calming feeling amongst the crew.”