Firefighters Celebrate Award Winners, New Leadership At Annual Banquet

SOUTH WINDSOR, CT — The South Windsor Fire Department honored firefighters, volunteers, and community partners during its Annual Banquet on Tuesday, Feb. 3, recognizing service milestones, leadership transitions, and standout contributions from across the department.

Held at Maneeley’s Lodge, the event drew more than 100 attendees, including town officials, 911 dispatchers, and neighboring fire chiefs. The evening opened with the Presentation of the Colors by the SWFD Honor Guard and prayers led by department chaplain Rev. Doug.

Top Awards And Honors

The Excellence in Exploring Award went to Julia Falletti, cited for going above and beyond in support of the department’s Explorer Program. The night carried special meaning for Falletti, whose 18th birthday coincided with her final day as an Explorer before beginning service as a firefighter with Company One.

The Doug Warren Spirit Award was presented to Commissioner William “Billy” Mitchell, honoring the legacy of longtime member Doug Warren and recognizing dedication, heart, and commitment to volunteer service.

Outgoing President Lt. Tom Franklin passed the gavel to incoming President Bryan Holmes and presented the President’s Award to Treasurer/Firefighter Tony Melo.

Leadership, Recognition, And Community Milestones

A retirement plaque was presented to a neighboring fire chief from Broad Brook, and Craig Zimmerman was recognized following his election as mayor.

Members were also honored for years of service, with awards presented in five-year increments:

• 5 Years: Josh Falletti; Tori Couillard; Gurpreet Singh
• 10 Years: Mary Ives; Kristy Otto; Adam Goldstein
• 15 Years: Tia Olson; Brian Ives; Torrie Ives; Jared Pelletier; Debra Burch; Dan Albani; Michael Samsel; Matt Falletti; Hussam Saada; Chris Radkovitch
• 20 Years: Bryan Holmes; Tom Dillon
• 30 Years: Don Marchesseault
• 35 Years: Dan Katzbek — presented by his father, retired Lt. and Life Member Joe Katzbek

Training Excellence And Firefighter Of The Year

The department recognized the committee behind Rescue Weekend, a regional training event hosted by SWFD for the past five years that has provided advanced hands-on and classroom instruction to more than 300 firefighters and officers annually.

The Fire Chief’s Award of Excellence was presented to Tim Papp; Jared Pelletier; Matt Falletti; Tia Olson; Matt Smith; Dan Dzen; and Dan Gordon (FDNY).

The evening’s highest individual honor, Firefighter of the Year, was awarded to Tim Papp, selected through nominations submitted by company captains.

Family Support Recognized

Department leaders closed by thanking families for their support, noting that volunteer service would not be possible without them.

For questions or contact information for award recipients, Chief Kevin E. Cooney can be reached at 860-982-0400 or kcooney@southwindsorfire.org
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