By BARBARA ANN HORTON
Staff Writer
Jon Miller and Chad Bell have been named Firefighter of the Year and Officer of the Year for putting their lives in danger to rescue a victim trapped in a burning home.
Miller and Bell along with their fellow Poplar Bluff firefighters put themselves in harm’s way each time they report to work. On May 23, Miller and Bell risked their own lives and were injured in the rescue.
In honoring both men, Fire Chief Mike Moffitt praised them calling them assets to the department and the city of Poplar Bluff.
“Jon is being honored for this award for the second year in a row,” Moffitt said. “He possesses many qualities that gain him respect by his peers, but the one that stands out this year is bravery. Jon risked his life to save a citizen from a burning residence. During the rescue, Jon himself was burnt in the flash over. In that moment, he put the life of someone else over his own.”
Moffitt describe Miller as “humble about his actions and the job he does. He always has a smile on his face and makes those around him smile as well.”
Miller was promoted from firefighter to lieutenant July 4.
Bell, who was promoted from firefighter to captain Sept. 15, 2021, also received words of praise from the chief.
Moffitt described Bell “as a hard worker, with great ideas. He is also described as a leader who goes above and beyond for the safety of the public. His bravery and decision-making skills resulted in rescuing a lady from her burning residence. When Chad couldn’t get to her through the front door, he went through the window. This action led to her rescue and removal from the structure.” But, Moffitt added, “while exiting the structure, Chad received burns from the result of a flash over.”
“Captain Bell’s leadership abilities, work ethic, and calm demeanor make him a great asset.”