Grant Volunteer Fire Department honors service, recognizes top responders at annual banquet

The Grant Fire Department recognized years of service, outstanding response records and statewide honors during its annual banquet held Saturday, March 28. 

Among the evening’s highlights, Travis Ogg was honored for five years of service, while Dwight Wiebe was recognized for 15 years of dedication to the department. 

The department also announced its top responders for 2024. Those recognized included Rick Dreiling, John Van Lieu, Donald Softley, Kevin Chavira, Garett Thompson, Chasity Knoles, Ann Van Lieu, Scott Knoles, Fred Reichert and Rick Ochsner. The group responded to a combined 289 calls out of 348 total department responses during the year. 

Top responders for 2025 were also recognized, including Jacob Newth, Rick Dreiling, Donald Softley, Chasity Knoles, Ann Van Lieu, John Van Lieu, Scott Knoles, Fred Reichert, Travis Ogg and Rick Ochsner. Together, they attended 244 events out of 287 total responses. 

Two members were honored with the Nebraska State Firemanship Award over the past two years: Jason Noyes and Chasity Knoles, recognizing their commitment and contributions to fire service in the state. 

Several firefighters were also recognized for earning Red Card designation, a certification indicating advanced training and readiness. New recipients included John Van Lieu, Ann Van Lieu and Garett Thompson. They join fellow members Fred Reichert, Scott Knoles, Travis Ogg, Casandra Jooste, Jacob Newth, Matt Dearver, Bryan Kroeker, Donald Softley, Rick Dreiling, Rick Ochsner and Chasity Knoles who have previously achieved the designation. 

The annual banquet serves as an opportunity for the department to reflect on the past year, celebrate accomplishments and recognize the volunteers who serve and protect the community.