Senior Michael Ortiz named the Wawayanda Fire Department/Slate Hill Fire District’s “2019 Firefighter of the Year’

Student and fire chiefMinisink Valley High School senior Michael Ortiz has been named the Wawayanda Fire Department/Slate Hill Fire District’s “2019 Firefighter of the Year.”

“I can honestly say that Mike has stepped up, he has done the right thing and has become a prominent member of the firehouse,” said Outgoing Chief Jamie Schaller. “Mike has ranked at or near the top in terms of call response, is present and active in many drills, work details, parades and other activities as he possibly could.”

Mike OrtizMike was recognized as Fire Fighter of the Month in April 2018 and again in January 2019.

“Mike has the backs of the members of the department and leads by example for the members who have joined after him,” added Chief Schaller. “We at the Wawayanda Fire Department are very proud that Mike Ortiz is a member, and our Fire Fighter of the Year.”

Mike received this recognition at an April 14 event.