Chief Hall and Firefighter Leopold

Chief Hall and Paramedic Knopp

For some, working third shift and volunteering as a firefighter and emergency medical technician is more than enough to keep you busy. But for Jason Leopold, it just wasn't enough.

Leopold was among those honored at the Bellbrook Fire Department's Annual Christmas Awards Dinner Saturday night, where he was named the 1999 Larry Gosnell Memorial Volunteer of the Year.

Nominated for his dedication to many special projects around the station and in the community, he recently became an assistant adviser for the Cadet Division. Leopold is also intimately involved in the Bicycle EMS team, numerous maintenance projects and many activities for the Bellbrook Firefighters' Association.

He also received his emergency medical technician certification this year and completed the qualification process to become a driver and operator of all department apparatus.

Chief Hall spoke highly of Leopold after the banquet.

"Jason's dedication to the department -- especially during the day when it's difficult to find personnel to respond to emergencies -- has been invaluable," he said.

Chief Hall added: "If there is a special project around the station that needs done, you can always count on Jason to step up the plate and get it done."

Also at the awards dinner, Peggy Knopp was honored for her 28 years of outstanding service to the community. She received the 1999 Pioneer Award, given to a member who has made a significant contribution to the organization, for her work as a firefighter and paramedic.

"Peggy has been a mentor to many people on the department, including myself, and should be commended highly for her 28 years of service," Hall said. "The department and the community will miss her."

Release I99-06