HAWARDEN—Jaden Jacobs, 21, of Hawarden, was awarded Hawarden Fire and Rescue Fireman of the Year. The annual Fireman’s Ball was held Saturday, Jan. 21, at Rooster’s Midwest Steakhouse in Hawarden.
Hawarden Fire and Rescue responded to a total of 118 calls in 2022 and Jacobs answered those calls with an attendance record of 94.
“We thought this person was deserving of the fireman of the year award for 2022 because he has improved a lot this year. He puts in a lot of time,” last year’s recipient, Logan State said. “Congratulations Jaden.”
Jacobs has served as a volunteer firefighter for three years having joined the department on July 5, 2020.
“It feels awesome, there’s a lot of great people that I’ve had the pleasure to work with from my time on the department. It’s truly the greatest experience in the world,” Jacobs said.
Firefighters were recognized for their years of dedicated service to the department. Recognized were Jonny Strong, 15 years, D.J. Schouten, 5 years, Josh Kennedy, 5 years, Eric Anderson, 15 years, and Hawarden Fire Department chief Duane Schiefen, 30 years. Thank you for your service.
Jacobs wanted to be a firefighter to help people in what could possibly the worst day of their life. In his three years on the department, Jacobs said there are two people who have been quite influential to him. Those fellow firefighters are Payne Allen and Derek Allen.
“Both of those guys have taught me so much about the fire service and life,” Jacobs said.
With some research, the department recognized Jacobs is the youngest to ever receive the honor.
“This year’s fireman of the year was an easy choice,” fire chief Duane Schiefen said. “Jaden Jacobs is a hard worker and is always there when you need him. Jaden goes above and beyond the call of duty. You will find him at the station on his off time doing something.”
In celebration of the 131st annual Fireman’s Ball, musician Weston Frank performed live for the fireman and their guests as well as the community who came to show support. This event is the fire department’s annual fundraiser. Schiefen and the rest of the department are grateful to everyone who came and those who have made donations.
“I would like to personally thank Rooster’s Steakhouse for hosting the fireman’s dance and everyone who attended,” Schiefen said. “Thank you to all that have donated to the department. Without your donations this wouldn’t be possible. Thank you to all the residents for keeping their fire hydrants clear of snow, we never know when they will be needed.”
Donations are still being accepted.
Send donations to the City of Hawarden in care of Hawarden Fire & Rescue or drop them off to Schiefen at DARS on Central Avenue in Hawarden.
