A full house was in attendance last Tuesday night at the 12th Annual Jefferson Davis County Firefighter of the Year Banquet. “There was more people here than we’ve had in the last few years,” said Prentiss Fire Chief Howard Kelly.

Penny Anthony of the Oakvale Fire Department was recognized as the county-wide Firefighter of the Year receiving a plaque and an official firefighter jacket.

Keynote speaker for the event was Robert Pickering, First Vice President of the MS Fire Chiefs Association who praised firefighters stating, “There’s no such thing as professional and volunteer in your line of duty; we’re all professional.”

A topic affecting all in attendance was Senate Bill 2587 which would provide additional funding from $65,000 to $100,000 for the death benefits trust fund and expand coverage to law enforcement officers, coroners and emergency personnel.

“I encourage each of you to talk to your senators and be proactive with the state Association,” said Pickering.

Recognition was paid to each fire department’s 2013 Firefighter of the Year.

•Bassfield Fire Department,  Kenny Atkins

•Clem Fire Department, LeAnne Griffth 

•Hwy 84 Fire Department,  Robert Earl Stephens

•Granby Fire Department, Brad Bridges

•Oakvale Fire Department, Penny Anthony

Recognition was also paid to the following firefighters who received certification as first responders: Will Crowdus, Vernon Terrell, Brad Bridges, Kaneese Bridges, James Earl Stephens, Chance Holloway and James Jackson.

Mayor Charley Dumas emceed the evening awarding multiple door prizes provided by area businesses.