In a heartfelt recognition of their unwavering dedication and acts of bravery in the line of duty, two remarkable first responders from Schuylkill County received awards for their commitment to public safety at the annual Spirit of Courage Awards.
For nearly 50 years, the Burn Institute has presented the Spirit of Courage Awards to individuals in the community who have risked their lives in an effort to save another from burn injury or death by fire. More than 500 local heroes, including civilians, fire service, and law enforcement professionals have been honored for their bravery.
This year, Pottsville Police Officer Michael Hrebik and Fire Chief James Misstishin, Sr. were recognized. The awards ceremony was held at DeSales University on Tuesday evening.
Hrebik, whose valiant efforts during a harrowing incident on May 9, 2023, were commemorated with the esteemed Spirit of Courage Award. Officer Hrebik displayed exceptional bravery as he risked his own safety to rescue a child during a fire on West Arch Street.
The Spirit of Courage Award, a crystal trophy adorned with an intricate representation of a firefighter cradling a child, is presented to individuals or groups who have demonstrated extraordinary courage by saving someone from imminent danger caused by any source of fire. This honor recognizes the profound personal risk they faced, which could have led to severe injury or even death.
Fire Chief Misstishin, Sr., was bestowed with the Partners in Prevention Award. Chief Misstishin was recognized for his outstanding contributions to fire education and prevention efforts in Pottsville and throughout Schuylkill County. The fire education that Misstishin provided in Pottsville provided the know-how to the child in the May 9th fire, on how to escape and get to the window to be rescued.
The Partners in Prevention Award is a crystal plaque crafted by Crystal Signatures, symbolizing the significance of fire safety and burn prevention education. It is awarded to individuals, groups, or organizations that have made remarkable strides in educating community members about fire safety measures. Special consideration is given to those who have reached large segments of the population or have provided their services over an extended period.
Hrebik, whose valiant efforts during a harrowing incident on May 9, 2023, were commemorated with the esteemed Spirit of Courage Award. Officer Hrebik displayed exceptional bravery as he risked his own safety to rescue a child during a fire on West Arch Street.
The Spirit of Courage Award, a crystal trophy adorned with an intricate representation of a firefighter cradling a child, is presented to individuals or groups who have demonstrated extraordinary courage by saving someone from imminent danger caused by any source of fire. This honor recognizes the profound personal risk they faced, which could have led to severe injury or even death.
Fire Chief Misstishin, Sr., was bestowed with the Partners in Prevention Award. Chief Misstishin was recognized for his outstanding contributions to fire education and prevention efforts in Pottsville and throughout Schuylkill County. The fire education that Misstishin provided in Pottsville provided the know-how to the child in the May 9th fire, on how to escape and get to the window to be rescued.
The Partners in Prevention Award is a crystal plaque crafted by Crystal Signatures, symbolizing the significance of fire safety and burn prevention education. It is awarded to individuals, groups, or organizations that have made remarkable strides in educating community members about fire safety measures. Special consideration is given to those who have reached large segments of the population or have provided their services over an extended period.