The Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department (JFRD) has named Engineer Pamela Ramsdell 2016 JFRD Lieutenant Joseph F. Stichway Firefighter of the Year, recognizing her “outstanding and impeccable professionalism and exceptional personal initiative.” This honor comes as the state celebrates Florida First Responder Appreciation Week (Jan. 9-13).
 

“Public safety is a top priority of my administration,” said Mayor Lenny Curry. “I am grateful for the hard work of the brave men and women who serve as first responders. I congratulate Engineer Ramsdell on this award.”
 

Ramsdell is responsible for coordinating all aspects of JFRD member funerals, both active duty and retirees, and Line of Duty Deaths (LODD). In 2016, JFRD experienced three LODDs and 17 retiree funerals. Ramsdell is described as managing the stress, anguish, anxiety, and unknowns with grace and dignity.
 

Ramsdell began her career as a member of the Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) Team at Station 4 in 2004 and joined the Hazardous Materials Team in 2008 upon her promotion to engineer where she remains assigned to Tower Ladder 21-C. Her additional roles with JFRD have included service with Special Events, Honor Guard and the USAR K9 Team with her rescue dog Pixel.
 

Ramsdell’s grandfather, James Dowling Jr., was first Chief of Rescue and credited for starting the first fire-based rescue service in the country. Ramsdell’s father was a rescue captain, and her great grandfather was a suppression captain.
 

About the City of Jacksonville

The City of Jacksonville is the largest city by land mass in the continental United States, serving approximately 850,000 residents. Located in Duval County, City of Jacksonville leadership includes the mayor and a 19-member City Council. To learn more about the City of Jacksonville, visit COJ.net.