KING CITY — The 2016 Firefighter of the Year Chris Salazar was recognized by the City of King during its meeting April 25 for his positive attitude along with his firefighting skills.
“We only see our firefighters when bad things happen but they are there every day, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year,” Mayor Mike Lebarre said. “Our volunteer fire department is an amazing resource for our community and one of those critical components that work with all of our other departments.”
Salazar was selected by the volunteer fire department committee that consists of previous firefighter of the year winners. Salazar is said to have a willingness to help the community.
“Firefighter Salazar never refuses when asked to help out in any function whether it is the rib barbecue, toy drive, fire muster, or fire house tours for school children,” Lebarre said. “Firefighter Salazar usually volunteers before being asked.”
According to Lebarre, Salazar responded to 177 calls out of 224 during the year.
“First I’d like to thank the King City Volunteer Fire Department for bringing me on and then giving me this great honor,” Salazar said. “I’d like to thank Fire Chief George Young for being such a fantastic mentor in his community service along with the other chiefs and other firefighters who have been dedicating themselves for decades before me.”
Salazar thanked the City Council for the recognition and for recognizing the work of past and future King City Volunteer Fire Department.
Salazar also thanked his family for their support and understanding for missing engagements.
Salazar has been part of the King City Volunteer Fire Department since 2013.
