SPANISH FORT, Ala. — John Shoemaker has been tapped as the Fire Fighter of the Year by the Spanish Fort Fire Department, highlighting an impressive response and training record for the past year.

The volunteer department honored Shoemaker alongside several of its other members and a few community supporters as well during the 48th annual awards banquet.

“John’s dedication is just unbelievable,” said Chief Roger Few. “I mean, here’s a guy who works a full-time job, Monday through Friday, spends time with his family and still found a way to earn his Volunteer Fire Fighter certification.”

The certification, Few said, requires 160 hours of training, meaning Shoemaker attended the required classes at least twice per week during 2009.

Shoemaker, who joined the department in March 2008, also attended 163 of 435 response calls and 47 of 50 department training courses during the year.

The department also honored the following members and supporters: