“I would like to say how proud I am of this department and to be able to work alongside these guys, serving as their Chief,” states Matt Foree (Above Left), Fairfield Volunteer Fire Department. “I greatly appreciate their service and dedication to this department as they provide free volunteer service for this community.”

These words were spoken at the department’s award ceremony held at the Calvary Baptist Church of Fairfield on Saturday evening, October 21, 2017. There ceremony included a meal, catered by Sam’s Restaurant, and beautiful awards custom made by 5-Alarm Fronts and Leatherworks.

Fire Officer of the Year was awarded to Secretary/Treasurer, Rich Schaufert.

“I was honored and surprised to be recognized,” says Schaufert.

Schaufert is in his sixth year on the department; fifth year as an officer; and is an EMT Basic.

“Rich does an amazing job. Anytime the department needs something, he is there,” explains Chief Foree.

Lieutenant Chandler Baggerly was chosen as Firefighter of the Year (Pictured At Top – Right). He was recently promoted to the position of Lieutenant from Firefighter.

He has served on the department for a year and a half.

Lieutenant Baggerly attended Hill College Fire Academy and holds a Certification of Basic Structural Firefighter with the Texas Commission on Fire Protection. He also has an Emergency Care Attendant Certification through the Texas Department of State Health Services.

“I greatly appreciate this award,” says Lieutenant Baggerly. “This would not be possible without the support of my wife, daughter, family, and the members of the department!”

Awarded Rookie of the Year was Avery Aultman.

“Avery is a dedicated, hard worker who is always ready to train,” says Chief Foree.

Aultman is currently enrolled in EMT Basic class at Navarro College and has plans to enroll in the fire academy.

He says, “I want to thank my family and fellow firemen, without them it wouldn’t have been possible to receive this award.”

Chief Foree concludes saying, “I would also like to thank the families that stand behind these men and understand and support the calling they have to serve this community.”

The Fairfield Volunteer Fire Department has responded to 346 calls from January 1st through October 23, 2017. These include wrecks, fires, and general service calls.

(Courtesy Photos)