Four South Kitsap Fire & Rescue firefighters were recognized Aug. 28 with a national award for their bravery and service during the Pacific Palisades wildfires in California earlier this year.

Lt. Scott Gammill, and firefighters Aaron Kipperberg, Nehemiah Killam and Alex Avramenko received the Sons of the American Revolution’s Fire Safety Commendation Award during the South Kitsap Board of Fire Commissioners meeting at Station 8 in Port Orchard. The award is presented to individuals for accomplishments or outstanding contributions in fire safety and service.

The commendation, presented by the John Paul Jones Chapter of the Washington Society of the Sons of the American Revolution, cited the firefighters’ “professionalism, courage, and efforts” while serving as part of the Kitsap County Strike Team that traveled from Washington to assist at the Southern California wildfires in January.

“Traveling a great distance from home and working amid potentially dangerous conditions, your professionalism, courage, and efforts were instrumental in protecting lives, homes, and communities,” chapter president Brian Dorr read from the citation. “In the proud tradition of our American patriots who served in a cause greater than themselves, your actions exemplify the highest standards of fire service and public duty. This commendation reflects our deep gratitude and admiration.”

Planned presenters included Dorr, who delivered remarks and read the citations, and chapter vice president Hugh Tucker, a retired Los Angeles Fire Department battalion chief, who presented the awards. Chapter Vice President Mick Hersey assisted, and Color Guard Captain Fred Gilbert, a retired Air Force colonel, presented challenge coins while dressed in full Continental uniform.

Kitsap County Commissioner Oran Root, who represents District 2, was also in attendance.