The Alabama legislature passed a joint resolution, signed by Gov. Bob Riley, declaring June 19, 2009, as Alabama Firefighter and Emergency Medical Personnel Day. Nine members of the Brierfield Volunteer Fire & Rescue Department were honored during opening ceremonies for the Alabama Sports Festival held on June 19 at the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex Arena. The Alabama Legislature, the Alabama Sports Festival, and the Governor’s Commission on Physical Fitness awarded the specially designed Medal of Service to those who have been in the fire and/or rescue service for at least 10 years. The Medal of Sacrifice was awarded to family members of those who lost a loved one in the line of duty. The televised event marked the largest assembly of Alabama Firefighter and EMS Personnel ever recognized and receiving specially minted medals in the history of our state.
Brierfield Fire & Rescue personnel receiving the Medal of Service award included: Cody Horton, Firefighter; Patrick McRee, Firefighter; Chris McRee, Firefighter;
Spruce McRee, Chief; Judy Rogers, Board Treasurer and EMS; Mike Mahan, Board Member and Firefighter; Robert Farrington, Firefighter; Pam Horton, EMS; and John Horton, Firefighter and EMS.
Pam Horton also received the Medal of Sacrifice award on behalf of her father, Robert Lee Smith, who lost his life in the line of duty as a firefighter.
