
It was a proud night for the Washington Township Fire Department as Firefighter Fletcher Rhoads was honored with the IVFA Life Saving Award for his courageous actions during a January 5th snowstorm. While off duty and spending time with family, Rhoads noticed a neighbor’s garage fire that had quickly spread to the home. He immediately helped the homeowner rescue his disabled wife from the smoke-filled house before suiting up to assist fellow firefighters in battling the blaze. The homeowner, Mr. Tripplett, a combat veteran, credited Rhoads with saving his wife’s life, stating he would not have been able to get her out on his own. He submitted a letter to the Indiana Volunteer Firefighters Association (IVFA) recommending Rhoads for recognition. Also during the evening, WTFD welcomed its newest member, Reed Norton. Norton, a paramedic, was officially sworn in as a firefighter and brings valuable experience to the department.