Firefighter honored

NORWALK — The Lions Club named Captain Brett Beers the Norwalk Firefighter of the Year in a ceremony at Lions Park in Norwalk last week. The award is voted on by his fellow firefighters in the department. This is the fourth time Beers has been honored with the title in his 30-year career. "I appreciate this. This is a true honor," Beers said. "It means a lot." Norwalk Fire Chief Dan Strayer told those attending this is a "well-deserved honor" for Beers. "It is a privilege to stand before you today to recognize not just a firefighter but a leader, a mentor, friend and a staple of this department," Strayer said. "Captain Beers spent three decades answering the call, day or night, rain or shine, always putting others before himself. Over the years, he's helped shape this department not only through his actions on scene, but through his guidance, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to those he leads. "To be named Firefighter of the Year once is an achievement," he added. "To be named four times is a testament to a career marked by leadership, compassion and a relentless drive to serve with excellence, traits that he has passed down to his fellow firefighters." Prior to his appointment to the Norwalk Fire Department, Beers served six years in the United States Navy. He was hired to the department in 1995. Strayer added that Beers' contributions to the department, on both other firefighters and the department itself, has been impactful. "Your impact reaches far beyond what can be measured. You have truly made this department and those around you better than when you first started — a goal we should all attempt to achieve," the chief said. Beers thanked the Lion's Club, Strayer, Assistant Chief Kevin McGraw and his brothers in the department. "It's been a true honor to serve with you. I do appreciate that," he told them. Beers also thanked Norwalk Mayor Dave Light. "I appreciate all your guidance over the years and advice," Beers said. Wayne Babcanec, first vice president of the club, spoke of his admiration for first responders in general and Beers in particular, for "sacrificing, serving and putting their lives on the line every day for us in Norwalk."