In a festive and heartfelt ceremony, the Lancaster City Fire and Rescue team gathered to celebrate their annual Christmas dinner, marking a year of unwavering dedication and service. Chief Colby Reik of the Lancaster Fire Department led the evening, highlighting the team's impressive response to emergencies and other critical incidents throughout the year.

Chief Reik proudly announced that the department responded to 253 emergency calls, showcasing their commitment to the safety and well-being of the Lancaster community. Additionally, the team efficiently handled 578 incidents, including lockouts, control burns, and special details, emphasizing their versatility and readiness.

The evening was also a tribute to the long-standing members of the department, with acknowledgments ranging from 5 to an astonishing 60 years of active service. This recognition underscored the deep-rooted dedication and loyalty within the team.

A significant highlight of the night was the celebration of key promotions within the department. The promotions included Jeremy Miller to Assistant Chief, Dustin Whited to Captain, and Jordan Davis and Josh Prather to Lieutenants. Chaplain Colby Clay Arnold and probationary Firemen Landan Hockensmith, Dan Roberts, and Shawn Provard Jr. were also recognized for their contributions.

The ceremony saw the presentation of two prestigious awards. Kenton Napier received the award for “Most Fire Runs of 2023,” and Lt. Josh Prather was honored with the award for “Most Training Hours of 2023.” These accolades highlighted the individual dedication and hard work of the firefighters.

Chief Reik expressed his humility and pride in the team's accomplishments and the positive momentum moving forward. While some members were unable to attend, their contributions were duly noted and appreciated.

The event was further enhanced by the generous contributions of local sponsors, including West Woodworking, LLC, Los Agaves Grill, Walmart Stanford, Garrard Hardware Store, and Garrard Automotive. These sponsors provided door prizes, adding to the festive spirit of the evening.

As the night concluded, Chief Reik extended a heartfelt Merry Christmas to everyone, symbolizing the close-knit and supportive nature of the Lancaster City Fire and Rescue team and the broader community they serve.