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All Departments Administration Corrections Development Services Facilities Management Human Resources Information Technology Library Services Management and Budget Services Natural Resources Management Neighborhood and Human Services Parks and Recreation Public Safety Public Works Veterans Services Waste ServicesOn Thursday, Feb. 16, two Escambia County Fire Rescue volunteer firefighters were recognized during the 2023 Pensacola Navy League Military Recognition Day.
Petty Officer Michael Rosa, USN, and Staff Sergeant Cheyann Smith, USAF, were honored during the ceremony. Outside of their military duties, both serve as volunteer firefighters for ECFR: Petty Officer Rosa serves out of ECFR Station #11 and Staff Sergeant Smith out of ECFR Station #2.
During the ceremony, Petty Officer Rosa received the 2023 Volunteer Service Medal with a certificate of recognition signed by President Joe Biden. As a member of the U.S. Navy, Petty Officer Rosa serves as the project lead for a Combat Support Team, leading 26 sailors covering 10 lines of effort. He also is a Target Analysis Report Subject Matter Expert. Petty Officer Rosa has dedicated over 500 hours of service to Escambia County, responding to several fire rescue calls as well as performing EMS-related services.
Staff Sergeant Smith was recognized as the 2023 Margaret Flowers Award recipient. She serves as the Non-Commissioned Officer in Charge of the Commander's Support Section. A natural fundraiser, she completely overhauled the command booster club to hold 15 separate events which funded her squadron's holiday party and provided financial support for a squadron mate that lost their spouse. While off-duty, Staff Sergeant Smith has responded to over 80 fire rescue calls for ECFR. In addition, she was named the 2023 Florida Mother of the Year by the American Mothers Organization.
"Taking the time and being willing to go out of your way to help others without being told to in itself is awesome," said Assistant District Chief Yoshimi Core. "'Service Beyond Self' is a term heard in the military and in Public Safety. It is a trait of behaviors clearly evident by two of Escambia County's firefighters. Both Escambia County representatives are also in the military and they share the 'esprit de corps' in serving their country and their neighborhood. We can all take pride in having members with these positive traits."
Escambia County Fire Rescue proudly operates as a combination fire service, utilizing the talents and diversities of volunteer and career firefighting personnel. Career personnel operate in 14 stations throughout the county. 13 stations work a 24/48-hour shift, and two stations work Monday-Friday, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Volunteer firefighters operate out of numerous stations throughout Escambia County. Escambia County Fire Rescue also provides other emergency services such as hazardous materials response, special operations and ALS non-transport. Learn more about how to join Escambia County Fire Rescue. Follow Escambia County Fire Rescue on Facebook.
District Chief Yoshimi Core with Staff Sergeant Smith (left) and Petty Officer Rosa (right)
Petty Officer Michael Rosa with the Volunteer Service Medal
The mission of Escambia County government is to provide efficient, responsive services that enhance our quality of life, meet common needs and promote a safe and healthy community.
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