Local firefighters were honored earlier this week for their service, dedication and heroism.

Ernie Termoshuizen and Ron Shryock, firemen with the St. Joseph Fire Department, each received the Bronze Medal of Valor for their efforts in rescuing two victims overcome by tank car fumes.

This dangerous rescue saved the life of one victim, said Mike Dalsing, Fire Department chief.

Chief’s Awards were given to John Nelson, Jason Ziph and Mike Neylon for work above and beyond their normal duties during the ice storm. Heartland Paramedics who assisted the Fire Department during the tank car rescue also received the Chief’s Award.

More than 200 union members, their families, retirees, City Council members and other elected officials attended the Wednesday night banquet at the Firefighters Local No. 77 hall.

The Fire Department named a special award to honor retired News-Press photographer Ival Lawhon Jr. in appreciation of his courage and support during the more than 30 years he documented the department as it worked. This year and in the future, the Ival Lawhon Award will be given to individuals and groups who provide exemplary support to the department in a crisis or over a period of time. This year’s award given by Mr. Lawhon, who received a spontaneous standing ovation, went to St. Joseph’s Communications Center personnel for their work during the ice storm.

Awards and plaques were given to retiring firefighters along with letters from President Bush, the president of the International Association Firefighters Union and resolutions from the state of Missouri. Service pins were given to firefighters who completed 20, 25, 30 and 35 years on the Fire Department.

Missouri’s Rosecrans Memorial Airport Fire Department recognized John Burris, the department’s assistant chief, for his community service work with youth.