ZFD Firefighter’s Ball & Awards Banquet

ZIONSVILLE, IN (February 22, 2025) – This year the 25^th annual ZFD Firefighter’s Ball & Awards Banquet was held on Saturday, February 22nd. The night was spent honoring our firefighters for their bravery, dedicated service to the Zionsville Community and recognizing the sacrifices they make and the risks they take to keep people safe. Nearly 200 people attended this year’s event. 

Fire Chief James VanGorder recapped 2024 and shared his vision and goals for 2025 and beyond. He completed the evening by saying “how extremely grateful I am for the incredible team of firefighters and administrative staff we have. I appreciate every one of you. You are the talented group that selflessly delivers live saving services to our community every day 24/7/365.”

We are proud to announce the following “of the year” awards for 2024. These individuals were nominated by their peers for always going above and beyond, demonstrating compassion and humbleness, displaying an eagerness to learn and proving to be trustworthy.  -Probationary Firefighter of the Year – Andrew Schulten, EMT of the Year – Luka Skudrzik, Paramedic of the Year – Jeremy Anker and the Cody Richardson Memorial Firefighter of the Year –Lt. Ben Box. Congratulations! 

There was a Civilian Lifesaving Award given to Cash Coyner for realizing something was wrong with one of his friends, and thought there might be something more severe than just a nosebleed. His efforts allowed ZFD to rapidly identify a potential sever life threating emergency and transport his friend to receive emergency surgery and thus save his life.

Boone County Professional Local 5195 Leadership Award: Captain Rob Coonfield

Captain Elliot Russell was recognized for his 30 years of dedicated service to the Zionsville Fire Department and the Zionsville Community. This milestone of three decades is a testament to his unwavering commitment, bravery and selflessness. Mayor Stehr has proclaimed February 22, 2025, as Captain Elliot Russell day for committing 30 years to not just his job but his calling. 

We would like to thank everyone that attended this year’s ZFD Firefighter’s Ball & Awards Banquet and helped make the evening a night to remember. Thank you to our title sponsor Ascension St. Vincent, Silver Sponsors- MacQueen Fire Apparatus and Local 5195, Bronze sponsors- MES, Valiant Primary Care, Pro Team Tactical, Pearson Ford, and Hurst Beans. Without their commitment to recognizing and celebrating excellence in public safety, the night would not be possible. We are looking forward to another safe and successful year in 2025.