The Pierre Volunteer Fire Department held its annual awards banquet on Friday (Dec. 5, 202), recognizing individuals who went above and beyond in their service this past year.
The highest honor, the Marso Award, was presented to Doug Gordon for his exceptional performance and commitment to the department over many years. Brandon Van Zee earned the Firefighter of the Year Award for his exemplary service and leadership, while Joe Kafka was honored with the Rookie of the Year Award, recognizing his outstanding contributions as a new member of the department.
(L to R): Brandon Van Zee, Doug Gordon and Joe Kafka.
Courtesy photo.
Officer elections were also held. Sean Kruger was reelected deputy chief. Brandon McCarthy was reelected assistant chief.
The Fort Pierre Volunteer Fire Department held their annual awards banquet last month (Nov. 8, 2025).
Justin Jones was honored with the Firefighter of the Year award and also received a special award for his years of dedicated service as the department’s chief. Rookie of the Year was Jackie Gruber. Officer of the Year went to Levi Fettig (not pictures) and the Chief’s Award was given to Wyatt Green. The Friend of the Fort Pierre Fire Department recognition was give to the Fort Pierre National Grassland firefighting team.
Jackie Gruber (right) receives the Fort Pierre Fire Department Rookie of the Year Award.
Photo courtesy of Theresa Jones.
Justin Jones received the Fort Pierre Fire Department Firefighter of the Year Award and was also honored for his years of service as chief of the department. His daughter, Morgan, presented him with a jacket from the Fire Department Auxiliary.
Photo courtesy of Theresa Jones.
Wyatt Green (left) receives the Fort Pierre Fire Department Chief’s Award.
Photo courtesy of Theresa Jones.
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