Turkey Creek Fire Territory firefighters and paramedics have been named the 2016 Wawasee Flotilla Commodores. The 40-member department will be represented by the top three officers in the department. Shown with the WawaSeal, given to each year’s commodore, from left, are EMS Capt. Tony Meeks, Assistant Fire Chief Kevin Grindle, Fire Chief Mickey Scott and Lisa Hill, Flotilla chairwoman. (Photo by Deb Patterson)

SYRACUSE — Turkey Creek Fire Territory firefighters and paramedics have been named the 2016 Wawasee Flotilla Commodores. “It is an honor for us,” stated Fire Chief Mickey Scott.

This year’s commodores, as those before them, are recognized because of what they do for the community, many of its members volunteers. The department members are there because of a desire to serve the public and protect property and lives in the time of emergencies.

The department will be represented by Scott, Kevin Grindle, assistant chief; and Tony Meeks, EMS captain. Scott noted the three are honored to represent the 40 firefighters and paramedics on the department. Scott also stated it is an honor to be among the list of past commodores, all of whom have contributed in various ways to the area.

The 55th annual Wawasee Flotilla, with a theme of “Christmas In July” will depart from the Wawasee Spink Condominiums at 1:30 p.m. Sunday, July 3, and travel around the lake, clockwise.

Entries are invited to decorate their floats, piers and cottages showing a Christmas theme. Participants need to register in order to be eligible to win an award.

Registration forms are available at local retailers and Team Tuttle Mortgage or you can call (574) 457-3775 or email [email protected] to have one sent. Participants may also register the day of the Flotilla at the judges boat.

This year’s awards will be the coveted Commodore Cup, DNR, Wawasee Property Owners Association, Neighborhood. Youth, Wawasee History, Most Patriotic, Commercial/Business, Non-profit, Best Wooden and Antique Boats and Most Original. Awards will also be given for the best onshore displays and a “People’s Choice Award” determined by Facebook voters.