Painesville Firefighters honored with Valor Award

Members of the Painesville Fire Department were recognized Tuesday for their role in rescuing a civilian from a fire in Painesville Township on September 27.

Lt. Chris Young and firefighters Ryan Jeric and Kyle Friebertshauser received a Valor Award from the Ohio State Fire Marshal during the 45th Annual Ohio Fire Service Hall of Fame and Fire Awards Ceremony in Columbus. They were honored alongside Painesville Township Lt. Kevin Falvey and firefighters Gary Reed and Matt Watson.

Congratulations to these firefighters for their courage, professionalism and commitment to protecting residents throughout the community and Lake County.

Tuesday’s ceremony also recognized Concord Township Lt. Mike Fearing as Ohio Fire Service Instructor of the Year, while retired Kirtland Fire Chief Tony Hutton received Ohio Fire Officer of the Year honors.

It was a proud day for Lake County fire departments and the first responders who serve communities across the region. If you see these firefighters out in the community, be sure to congratulate them on this well-deserved recognition.