City of Perrysburg

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Firefighter of the Year

May 23, 2023

Perrysburg firefighter/paramedic Ryan Helwig has been named the 2022 Firefighter of the Year. The award is given annually to a member of the Perrysburg Fire Division who has made a significant contribution to the Division during that year. 

Fire Chief William McCullough said the entire Division was involved in the selection process by submitting nominations. 

“We received many nominations, but there was one person who stood out from the rest,” said Chief McCullough. “Ryan received not only the greatest number of nominations but also the most thoughtful and detailed submissions.” 

Some of the nominations described Helwig as, “exceeding expectations,” having a “witty sense of humor,” “the first to step in and lend a hand when needed,” and “very bright who shows genuine compassion for all patients.” 

Helwig started with the Perrysburg Fire Division as a volunteer in 2015. He then completed firefighter and EMT training which led to him being hired full time in 2020. 

“He quickly showed that he was a dedicated employee willing to take on extra projects,” said Chief McCullough. 

Helwig assists in the Station Check program which is a daily, weekly, and monthly check-in of vehicles and equipment so that they are maintained in tip-top order. He also helped implement a pre-plan software system which helps to maintain pre-plans not only for the Perrysburg Fire Division but also for mutual aid partners. 

“Ryan’s hard work, dedication, and incredible work ethic exemplifies what it means to be a firefighter and we are grateful to have him as part of our team,” said Chief McCullough. 

Helwig was presented with the award during the Exchange Club of Perrysburg’s May meeting which honored and recognized first responders. During that same meeting, Perrysburg Police Officer Jordan Gregory was presented with the Officer of the Year.

IMG_8852              Officer of the Year
Pictured L-R: Exchange Club President Aaron Bortz,               Pictured L-R: Exchange Club President Aaron Bortz,  
Alex and Ryan Helwig, Fire Chief William McCullough             Lt. Chris Sargent, Officer Jordan Gregory and his wife Alexa, 
                                                                                                           Police Chief Patrick Jones