Vermilion Firefighters Recognised for Decades of Service and Provincial Support Efforts

Firefighters with the Vermilion Fire Department were formally recognised on Oct. 22 for their years of commitment to local emergency response, as well as for their work assisting wildfire efforts elsewhere in Alberta. The ceremony, held in Vermilion, included service awards presented on behalf of both the Town of Vermilion and the County of Vermilion River.

Ed Mailhot- 12 years

Jim King-40 years

Joe Zizek-22 years

Dean Manz- 22 years

Travis Warman -12 years

Years of Service Marked at Ceremony

Several members were acknowledged for milestone years of service, reflecting long-standing dedication to protecting Vermilion and neighbouring rural areas. Those honoured included:

40 Years
▪️ Jim King

22 Years
▪️ Dean Manz
▪️ Joe Zizek
▪️ Wayne Roach

12 Years
▪️ Travis Warman
▪️ Jamie McPhee
▪️ Ed Mailhot

These individuals have played a steady role in responding to fires, accidents and emergencies, often in demanding rural conditions where volunteer and trained firefighters are relied upon heavily.

Medals for Support in Alberta Wildfires

Firefighters who provided assistance during major wildfire responses in other communities also received recognition. Medals for work during the Jasper wildfire were awarded to:

▪️ Tyler Coates-Lingley
▪️ Wayne Roach
▪️ Paul Conlon

Medals for firefighting support in Sturgeon County (Redwater) were given to:

▪️ Bryce Lytle
▪️ Carter Usenik
▪️ Ed Mailhot
▪️ Tyler Coates-Lingley
▪️ Paul Conlon
▪️ Wayne Roach

Members who were unable to attend the event will receive their awards at a later date.

Importance of Rural Fire Services

The event highlighted the essential role local firefighters play in rural Alberta, where response teams often handle emergencies with limited resources and significant travel distances. Their readiness and experience remain crucial to public safety in Vermilion and the surrounding region.

Both the Town and the County expressed appreciation for the firefighters’ commitment, noting that their work continues to strengthen emergency response capacity across the region.