Battalion Chief Jason Pickrell received the Owensboro Fire Department’s highest honor — the Vanguard Award — during the organization’s annual awards ceremony on Thursday night. Several others also received awards for their dedication, leadership, and impact in 2025.
The event was held at the Walter Freeman Fire Training Center. Pickrell was recognized for his leadership in advancing the department through program development, mentoring, and emergency response planning.
“He’s a mentor and a motivator, and he focuses on getting the best out of those who are willing to put forth the effort,” Fire Chief James Howard said. “He’s moved the department forward with a mindset to take us from good to great.”
Pickrell, in an emotional speech, credited his father and early mentors for shaping his career path.
“My dad told me, ‘Find something you love and want to do for the rest of your life,’” Pickrell said. “Soon after, the fire department found me. I love my job. This is the best thing that’s ever happened to me.”
Brandon Hardin was presented with the Health and Safety Award after undergoing a personal transformation that inspired those around him.
“That was all the motivation this guy needed to kickstart his road to becoming more physically active and practice better dietary habits,” said Battalion Chief Bobby Grant. “Eventually it turned into a scene from ‘Rocky’ — he’d start his walk solo, and next thing you know, he’d have the entire station turning lap after lap with him.”
Driver Engineer Bobby Glenn was named Engineer of the Year for the second time, earning praise for his reliability and leadership on and off the scene.
“He’s a self-motivator, a mentor, and someone you can always count on,” the presenter said. “Even though he’s worked his last shift with us, we’ll miss him as a brother and a friend.”
Firefighter/Paramedic Josh Knies earned EMS Provider of the Year honors.
“He is calm under pressure — I’ve seen him teaching other paramedics while actively performing procedures,” said Captain Matt Cissell. “It’s pretty amazing to witness.”
Andrew Wilson was named Firefighter of the Year.
“He’s a guy we can count on, whose knowledge and work ethic elevate everyone around him,” the presenter said. “He’s a great father, husband, and friend on this fire department.”
Josh Hayden received the Rookie of the Year Award for his strong performance during his first year of service.
Lieutenants Chad Johnson and Josh Sexton were honored as Officers of the Year, with both described as proactive leaders with a passion for training and development.
“They’re aggressive problem solvers and key members of our special operations team,” the presenter said. “They continue to raise the bar on both personal and professional growth.”
Promotional pinnings were awarded to Driver Engineers Jake Aull, Dylan Brown, Brad Hall, Brandon Hardin, Aaron James, Colby Smith, and Zerrick Wells. Lieutenant Tyler Grant and Battalion Chief Brian Roberts (Fire Marshal) also received their pins.
The Distinguished Partner Award was given to Dahl and Groezinger, Inc. for providing training resources and equipment to the department. The fire department also honored Shaelie Velez and Maddie Haynes from the City of Owensboro’s Marketing and Communications Department for their support with recruitment campaigns and public messaging.
“These two ladies guided us through the development of our new website, social media campaigns, and even cooking shows that highlight the humanity of our first responders,” the presenter said. “They’re savvy professionals and true partners.”
The event included heartfelt moments and standing ovations, capping off a year of progress and service for Owensboro’s firefighters and their families.
