Michigan City Mayor Chuck Oberlie and Interim Fire Chief Randy Novak announced that the Michigan City Fire Department Unit Citation Award for April 2007 will be presented to Captain Mark Donaldson, Lt. Mike Neulieb, Driver Dan LeGault, Firefighter Doug Gardner, and Battalion Chief Daryl Westphal.

Chief  Novak stated that these five individuals are being recognized for their emergency response efforts as follows:  On Sunday afternoon, April 15, 2007, Engine Company 2 responded to an emergency response call involving a victim with injuries on a 4-wheeler located off of U.S. Hwy. 12 and west of Karwick Road.  In responding to the call, the firefighters located the victim on the other side of a sand dune and approximately 300 yards from the emergency response staging area.  The firefighters notified LaPorte County EMS that the individual was conscious and alert, and that the person suffered a compound fracture of his left arm.  The responding firefighters cut and removed the clothing around the injury, applied a splint and placed the patient on a back board.  The five firefighters were assisted by one member of LaPorte County EMS in transporting the victim to the ambulance.

“We commend the firefighters who responded to this incident for their quick actions that led to locating the injured victim, and their subsequent efforts in stabilizing the patient’s injury and transporting him safely to the waiting ambulance,” Chief Novak said.  “We are proud of the teamwork and professionalism displayed by Engine Company Two during this difficult rescue.”

The Michigan City Fire Department announces the retirement of Captain Teddy Rebac after thirty one years of service.

Captain Teddy Rebac retired July 22, 2007. Hired July 21, 1976 Captain Rebac worked his way through the ranks of the Michigan City Fire Department and was promoted to Captain on April 2nd of 1989. He served as a front line Captain for 18 of his 31 years. Captain Rebac looks forward to traveling and lots of leisure time.

Chief Ralph Martin wasn't always the 'Chief', rising up through the ranks of the Michigan City Fire Department, spanning a career lasting three and half decades. After serving in the military Ralph Martin came home to Michigan City and joined the fire department. The year was nineteen seventy-two, the same year the high school split into two campuses. Chief Martin led the department for twelve years. Priding himself on many accomplishments Chief Ralph Martin fondly sights his positive work on a frequently miss targeted hiring process. The Chief, who looks forward to traveling and lots of leisure time starts his retirement March 15, 2007.

Battalion Chief Tom Pawlik retired February 28, 2007. Hired January 30, 1968 after service in the military Chief Pawlik worked his way through the ranks of the Michigan City Fire Department. His retirement plans include a lot of golf and taking it easy.