Winona Lake Fire Chief Mitch Titus was awarded the Fireman of the Year Award from his department. Shown from left are Mike Raymer, Matt Stamm, former recipients; Titus; Carson Kintzel and J. W. Anderson, also former recipients. (Photo by Al Disbro)

WINONA LAKE — Winona Lake Annual Firemen’s Christmas Party on Saturday, Dec. 19, honored two of its own with awards.

Fire Chief Mitch Titus was recipient of the Fireman of the Year Award with Firefighter Todd Kohler receiving the Winona Lake Service Award.

Titus, who has lead the volunteer department for approximately six years, is one who goes above and beyond the duties required of a fire chief. He continues, on his own time, to further his education in firefighting to improve his skills. He also sees his fellow firefighters have the training and equipment needed to serve their community.

Titus also keeps a good working relationship between the local department and area fire departments.

Kohler has given of himself unselfishly to the department for 18 years. He is known to help with many of the activities and fund raising events hosted by the department throughout the year. He has been a trustee for many years, outfitted many of the members with personal protective equipment and gear, assisted with the maintenance of the fire equipment when needed and chaired the annual Christmas committee dinner for a number of years.

Kohler is said to be a firefighter who is willing to help others and respond when called upon for duty as a firefighter.

Winona Lake Firefighter Todd Kohler was presented the department’s service award. From left, are, Mike Raymer and Matt Stamm, former recipients; Kohler; and Carson Kintzel and J.W. Anderson, also former recipients. (Photo by Al Disbro)