The Park Forest Fire Department will recognize its top performers at the annual awards ceremony scheduled for Saturday, March 7, at Freedom Hall. The event, which starts at 10 a.m., is intended to highlight notable acts of service by department members during the past year.
One of the main honors to be presented is the Firefighter of the Year Award. This recognition goes to a member who demonstrates exemplary service and achievement in fire protection duties. All ranks within the department are eligible for this award. Selection involves a process where an internal committee of firefighters reviews candidates and makes a recommendation to the fire chief for final approval. Those who have previously received awards for valor, honor, life-saving efforts, commendation, merit, or citation are automatically considered.
Fire Chief Mark Cotrano spoke about why recognizing these achievements matters. “This award is important because it recognizes their hard work, quick thinking, intelligent reactions, and care for our residents and their property,” Cotrano said. “Many of the decisions made are made during life-and-death situations, and it is important to showcase to our residents what the Village’s Fire Department is willing to do to protect them.”
Residents are invited to attend this free event as a show of support for local firefighters. Freedom Hall is located at 410 Lakewood Blvd.
According to the official website, Village of Park Forest promotes community health and engagement through various commissions and programs while also focusing on sustainability in town planning and practices. The village aims to strengthen economic conditions and deliver municipal services through collaborative approaches and innovation. Governance in Park Forest operates under a council-manager system with leadership from a mayor and six trustees. The village has also demonstrated commitment to environmental responsibility by supporting national climate initiatives such as the U.S. Conference of Mayors’ Climate Protection Agreement.
Additionally, educational opportunities like those offered by its Civic Leadership Academy address local issues by fostering informed civic participation.
