The Medford Fire Department honored its team of exceptional first responders during its 2026 Annual Awards Banquet—an evening that recognized outstanding service, leadership, and dedication across the organization.
Held in April at the Rogue X, the ceremony celebrated major achievements from the past year, while reflecting on the department’s continued growth, innovation, and commitment to its core values: Service, Honor, Integrity and Pride.
Chief Thompson and Deputy Chief Brown led the evening’s program, which included service milestones, commendations, and peer-nominated awards. The department also premiered a highlight video created by Firefighter Kyle Nelson, showcasing moments from the previous year.
Award Highlights:
Service Pins
- 25 Years of Service: Battalion Chief Jason John
Education Service Bars
Recognizing continued professional development:
- Fire Officer I – Firefighter Andrew Burton, Firefighter Corbin Davey, Firefighter Brandon Grissom, Firefighter Wes Hammer, Engineer Marc Trautz
- EMT/Paramedic Certification – Firefighter Sarah Defenbaugh
Chief’s Coin
- Deputy Fire Marshal Jeff Matschke – Recognized for exceptional transition into the role of Deputy Fire Marshal.
- Captain Noah Davis, Engineer Andrew Burg, Firefighter Todd Rufener and Firefighter Quaid Walters – Pride in station culture and team.
Letter of Commendation
- Administrative Support Technician Jenilee Rasmussen – Commended for her support of the Fire and Life Safety Division.
- Engineer Cole Rohrbough – Dedicated work on the pre-planning program while on light duty.
- Battalion Chief Kip Gray – Work strengthening the AIC program and Kastros ICS program across the department.
- Firefighter Eric Zurita – Behind the scenes work supporting the HazMat team.
So That Others May Succeed Award
- Engineer Marc Trautz – Mentorship of others through aerial training and AIC Engineer programs.
- Data Systems Specialist Crystal Palmerton – Work on the transition from NFIRS to NERIS.
- Captain Chuck Glose – Commitment in the TCCC and Canine programs and work with the local school district.
- Captain Jon Peterson – Commitment to health and well-being of others through reducing the risk of cancer through education, improving PPE, and decontamination practices.
Outstanding Service Awards
- EMS Squads – Squad 12: EMT Dain Blomgren and Paramedic Mike Rust, Squad 13: EMT Rob Aldous and Paramedic Jodi Fenton, Squad 14: EMT Tyler Barrett and Paramedic Tim Hegdahl – Recognized for going above and beyond expectations and strengthening the department.
- Firefighter Daniel Cook and Captain Kris Miller - Dedication to building and maintaining fireground readiness through quarterly peer-to-peer training.
- Captain Al Rogers – Unwavering drive to serve the department, his crew, and the community.
- Deputy Fire Marshal Jon Gailis – Commitment and professionalism with the Mobile Food Vendor safety program.
Meritorious Service Medal
Awarded for outstanding performance of duty on a single occasion or meritorious service over a period of time:
- Engine 12 - Captain Chuck Glose, Engineer Kyle Miller, Firefighter Jake Wright and Firefighter Frank Bungay – Awarded for their quick thinking, teamwork, and decisive action in responding to an MVC with a juvenile pinned under an SUV.
Company Citations
Recognizing cohesive teamwork during high-impact calls:
- Engine 15 – AIC Captain Kris Miller, Engineer Andrew Burg and Firefighter Quaid Walters - Exceptional teamwork and professionalism while responding to a critical allergic reaction, and execution of an advanced life-saving procedure in the field.
Top Honors: 2025 ‘Of the Year’ Awards
- Fire Marshal of the Year: Deputy Fire Marshal Steve Parks – Honored for always going above and beyond, taking initiative to respond to incidents, solving problems quickly, and supporting crews in the field.
- EMS Provider of the Year: Paramedic Mike Rust – Recognized for his commitment to the department’s growth, steady and reliable presence, and high quality and compassionate care.
- Firefighter of the Year: Firefighter Chase Ferraccioli – Honored for his positive attitude, strong energy, and a genuine care for those around him that lifts the entire crew.
- Engineer of the Year: Engineer Kyle Miller – Recognized for work ethic, professionalism, dedication, and leadership of the extrication program.
- Officer of the Year: Captain Ryan Willits – Celebrated for setting the standard of what a fire officer should be and leading by example.
- Pride & Ownership Award: Engineer Travis Chronister – Commended for investing in meaningful training, ownership of his responsibilities and the success and well-being of those around him, reliability, attention to detail, and high standard.
The event served as a powerful reminder of the heart behind Medford Fire’s success—the dedicated men and women who protect the community every day. The department extends its deepest gratitude to City Council, City leadership, and the Rural Fire Board for their ongoing support.
“The community trusts us to show up ready and to do the job right, often on what is often the worst day of their life. That’s not something we take lightly,” said Chief Thompson, “This past year, this department responded to over 12,000 calls for service. But that number doesn’t define us. What defines us is how we showed up on those calls – with consistency, professionalism, and treating people with respect, care, and competence. That’s what builds trust.”