The Firefighter of the Year Award is for a firefighter who has exceeded the requirements and expectations of his or her position and has shown a distinct pattern of service, professionalism, and commitment to the Ferndale Volunteer Fire Dept.

This year, Capt. Rick Nicholson was honored at the annual dinner for his many accomplishments since joining the department in 2008.

In addition to being captain of Company 4, Rick has:

• Received an attendance award in all but one year since joining
• Attained upgraded driver’s license to drive fire equipment
• Maintained a current EMT certification
• Received additional training such as Hazmat, wildland, water rescue, swift water, low angle rope to name just a few
• Been active member of Eel River Valley Technical Rescue Team
• Performed many maintenance tasks such as resealing the Tender 6 tank
• Been active training new recruits attending the Eel River Valley Fire Academy

Thank you Rick for all you’ve done and continue to do.