Two Cy-Fair Fire Department Firefighters Awarded Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo’s First Responder of the Year Award
In a tribute to acts of bravery and heroism, two firefighters from the Cy-Fair Fire Department have received the prestigious First Responder of the Year Award from the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. Firefighters Neil Wleczyk and Jeremy Lopez were acknowledged for their exceptional acts of bravery during a potentially catastrophic event, according to a statement released by the department.
The prestigious award is presented to nominated first responders hailing from a variety of law enforcement and firefighting agencies that represent the eight counties of the Houston metropolitan area. The nominees are those who have demonstrated innovation, bravery, and life-saving efforts in their line of duty.
Firefighter Neil Wleczyk with the Cy-Fair Fire Department. (Source: CFFD)The dedication and valor of firefighters Wleczyk and Lopez were tested in a formidable incident on September 11, 2023. In response to a residential house fire, the two firefighters displayed notable courage and quick thinking. They executed a daring rescue of Lieutenant Ben McDonald, who had fallen through the roof into active flames. The pair acted decisively and selflessly, putting their lives in grave risk to save one of their own without regard for their personal safety.
Fire Chief Amy Ramon publicly commended Wleczyk and Lopez, stating, "I am incredibly proud of Firefighters Neil Wleczyk and Jeremy Lopez for their selfless actions that led to them being recognized as the First Responders of the Year by the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. Their bravery and dedication exemplify the values we uphold at CFFD, and this award is a testament to their exceptional service to our community. We are honored to have such courageous individuals serving on our team."
Firefighter Jeremy Lopez with the Cy-Fair Fire Department. (Source: CFFD)The Cy-Fair Fire Department, which serves the citizens of Northwest Harris County, stands as one of the largest and busiest combination fire departments in the United States, responding to over 32,000 emergencies annually. Operating from thirteen strategically located stations throughout the 164 square mile territory of Harris County Emergency Services District #9, the CFFD boasts a team of more than 350 of the nation's best-trained and equipped firefighters and Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs).
Through their selfless act of heroism, Wleczyk and Lopez have embodied the spirit of courage and selflessness that define the essence of firefighting and uphold the Cy-Fair Fire Department's legacy of excellence.
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Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
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