WMFR serves up annual district awards

West Manatee Fire Rescue Capt. Paul Hopkins thanks Chief Ben Rigney and fire commissioners Feb. 15 with handshakes after being honored for 20 years of service and awarded the district’s 2021 Officer of the Year award, which he received for serving as a “prime example of leadership.” Islander Courtesy Photos: WMFR

WMFR firefighter/paramedic Robert Haygood holds a plaque Feb. 15 naming him the district’s 2021 Firefighter of the Year for his “unmatched determination” and desire to help people.

WMFR firefighter/paramedic Gabriel Gonzalez shows off a trophy Feb. 15 naming him the district’s 2021 Rookie of the Year.

WMFR firefighters and staff, as well as family, watch Feb. 15 as district leaders announce the 2021 award winners in the meeting room at the district administrative building, 701 63rd St. W., Bradenton.

WMFR Capt. Tyler MacDonald poses Feb. 15 with a plaque celebrating his 10 years of service with the fire district.