The parents of late Fire Engineer Austin Peck, who lost his service-related battle with cancer in August at age 35, were on hand Feb. 27 when the Goodyear Fire Department held its inaugural awards ceremony at Tuscany Falls in PebbleCreek.

The department named the 11-year GFD veteran Firefighter of the Year in recognition of his commitment and dedication to the department and community. The award is given to an individual who demonstrates exceptional professionalism and esprit de corps, exemplifies outstanding standards of service by virtue of diligence, dedication and character, and embraces and embodies the values of the organization; integrity, excellence and unity.

Mr. Pecks parents, Mark and Marie Peck, accepted the award on their son’s behalf.

Several others also were honored during the evening.

Fire Administrative Services Supervisor Lisa Neagle was named Employee of the Year. The award is given for exemplary performance of duties and responsibilities and for support the mission of the department, producing quality work, and consistently displaying characteristics valued and appreciated by the organization.

Capt. Aaron Chavez, Engineer Paul Lovejoy, Engineer Gilbert Aguirre and Firefighter Christopher New were presented the Unit Commendation Award for acts of courage, resourcefulness and perseverance in performance of their duties which have resulted in the protection of life or property, the prevention of serious injury or death, or exceptional quality service to the department or the community.

Engineer Lora Davis was presented the Community Service Award for exemplary service and commitment to the community in a manner that is beyond what is expected in their normal responsibilities.

Chief Paul Luizzi presented the Fire Chief’s Award to fire equipment maintenance worker Sam Portillo. The award is given in recognition for demonstrating acts of courage, resourcefulness and perseverance in performance of duties that have resulted in the protections of life or property, the prevention of serious injury of death, or exceptionally admirable quality of service to the department or community.