News

Team Offutt member named Civilian Firefighter of the Year

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Hillary A. Stonemetz
  • 55 Wing Public Affairs
Saving lives, property and the environment as well as protecting them from further harm is all part of the job Offutt firefighters do on a daily basis. Recently, one Offutt firefighter stood out across the Air Force as a shining example of expertise and professionalism.

Joshua Moorman, 55th Civil Engineer Squadron firefighter, was named Air Force Civilian Firefighter of the Year by Air Combat Command in May. He was also coined by Brig. Gen. Jim Jones, 55th Wing commander, in a ceremony here.

"Mr. Moorman continually steps forward and takes on any initiative with enthusiasm and vigor," said David Eblin, 55th CES deputy fire chief. "He always produces high quality results and is one to the go-to guys on his shift."

"We are all very proud of Josh and all his accomplishments," he said. "Winning an award of this level happens very far and few between, so having an Offutt firefighter win is very special and places the Offutt Fire Department upon a pedestal of excellence."

Mr. Moorman sees this honor as more of an award for the entire Offutt Fire Department.

"There's no situation that can be handled by one person," said Mr. Moorman. "The rest of the department was always there with me."

The job area expertise that Mr. Moorman excels at includes structural and aircraft firefighting, hazardous material responses, confined space rescue and emergency medical technician responses.

"My favorite part of my job is structural firefighting and rescue response," said Mr. Moorman. "Those are the most rewarding aspects of my job because you help more people and you're more in the middle of the action."

The categories considered for the Air Force civilian firefighter of the year award are: accomplishments, job performance, technical competence, leadership ability, initiative and resourcefulness.

Mr. Moorman will now compete at the Department of Defense level. The winners at this level will be announced at a DoD Fire and Emergency Services Training Conference Aug. 15 in Denver.

In addition to this award, Josh also recently garnered the 8th Air Force Junior Civilian of the Year Award at a ceremony at Barksdale AFB, La.