The Park Forest Fire Department is set to recognize its members for outstanding service at the annual awards ceremony on Saturday, March 7. The event will take place at Freedom Hall, starting at 10 a.m., and will highlight acts of dedication and achievement by department personnel over the past year.
One of the key recognitions is the Firefighter of the Year Award, which is presented to a member who demonstrates exemplary performance and notable achievements in fire service. The award process involves nomination from all ranks within the department. The selection is managed by an awards committee composed of firefighters, who discuss candidates before submitting a recommendation to the fire chief for final approval. Previous recipients of awards for valor, honor, life-saving actions, commendation, merit, or citation are automatically considered for this distinction.
Fire Chief Mark Cotrano commented on the importance of such recognition: “This award is important because it recognizes their hard work, quick thinking, intelligent reactions, and care for our residents and their property,” Cotrano said. “Many of the decisions made are made during life-and-death situations, and it is important to showcase to our residents what the Village’s Fire Department is willing to do to protect them.”
The ceremony is open to all residents free of charge as a way for the community to support local firefighters. Freedom Hall’s address is 410 Lakewood Blvd.
Village of Park Forest emphasizes community health and engagement through various commissions and programs as detailed on its official website. The village has also been recognized for its sustainability efforts in urban planning and practices. Its government operates under a council-manager structure with a mayor and six trustees guiding policy decisions. Park Forest aims to improve economic conditions and municipal services through collaboration and innovation while offering educational opportunities like its Civic Leadership Academy.
The village also demonstrates leadership in sustainability initiatives by supporting agreements such as the U.S. Conference of Mayors’ Climate Protection Agreement.
