Each year the Department of Fire & Emergency Services recognizes an individual for outstanding performance. We are pleased to announce that the Firefighter of the Year for 2024 is Lucas Woodward. The Firefighter of the Year award is part of our overall Awards Program. Members are nominated by their peers and evaluated by a committee on the following criteria:
- Consistent top level performance of routine duties
- Cooperative attitude with fellow firefighters and supervisors
- As a team member and individually, demonstrates a high level of proficiency operating at emergency incidents
- Projects a positive image of the department to the public, both on and off duty
- Seeks ways to improve delivery of departmental services
Lucas began his service to the City of Sidney on January 16, 2018, and has served faithfully and professionally for the past seven years. FF/EMT-Paramedic Woodward has demonstrated a strong desire to grow and develop within the department and has undertaken numerous special projects and assignments. The performance of his duties has consistently been above average and often excellent.
Lucas is a certified FF / EMT-Paramedic, Public Safety Fire and EMS Instructor, and an AHA ACLS and CPR Instructor. He is also Tech Rescue certified. Additionally, is serving as the Treasurer of the Executive Board of IAFF Local 912 and is a member of several department committees. Lucas has been instrumental in organizing and facilitating training inside and outside of the department. He also serves in a volunteer capacity as a Tactical Paramedic with the Shelby Co. Sheriff’s Office.
During his career, Lucas has been recognized many times for his professional and caring performance on calls. The following are a few of the recent highlights of FF/P Lucas Woodward’s career. FF/P Woodward has received the following Records of Exceptional Performance:
- March 2025 – EMS call priority one with life saving measures conducted
- February 2025 – Exceptional work on accountability boards
- November 2024 – EMS Committee work and research on video- assisted intubation
- June 2024 – Led Rescue Task Force Training for several partner agencies
- January 2024 – Led initiative to replace department body armor
- May 2022 – Part of a crew that replaced a kitchen stove for a family after a fire
- Numerous other recognitions through the first years of FF/P Woodward’s career with Sidney