Florida Firefighters Honored for Heroic Water Rescues

When swimmers struggled in the dangerous Gulf waters last April, two Escambia County firefighters didn't hesitate to dive in and save lives.

Firefighter Joseph Graczyk earned the Medal of Courage after plunging into hazardous waters, locating a victim below the surface, and bringing them safely to shore. His teammate, Christopher (Leslie) Williams, received the Medal of Gallantry for operating a jet ski through treacherous conditions to rescue multiple struggling swimmers.

The two heroes were honored alongside dozens of their colleagues at Escambia County Fire Rescue's 2026 Medal Day on February 21. The annual ceremony celebrates the department's biggest achievements from the previous year.

The celebration recognized 19 new firefighters who completed their mandatory one-year probationary period. Six officers received promotions for their leadership and dedication to protecting their community.

Four veteran firefighters retired after dedicating decades to saving lives. Firefighter Paul McCleary capped an incredible 40 years of service, while Chief Mark Butler retired after 30 years protecting Escambia County residents.

The ceremony also remembered Deputy Chief Beau Rodrique, a beloved volunteer who served the Beulah community faithfully before passing away in January 2025. His loss reminds everyone of the sacrifice firefighters and their families make every day.

Why This Inspires

These awards celebrate more than individual bravery. They show what happens when communities invest in training, equipment, and people who genuinely care about protecting others. The department honored 11 separate emergency responses where teams worked together to save lives, from cardiac arrests to entrapment rescues to a stabbing incident.

Lt. Jeffery Rohrer earned Career Fire Officer of the Year, while Firefighter Angel Santana became Career Firefighter of the Year. Their volunteer counterparts, Lt. Christianne Barry and Firefighter Joshua Bazinet, proved that dedication to service comes in many forms.

These firefighters represent the best of what we can be when crisis strikes: calm, courageous, and completely focused on helping others survive their worst moments.