The Collinsville Fire Department honored its team of exceptional first responders during its 2025 Annual Awards Banquet on May 2 at 6 p.m. at The Manor on Main in Collinsville.
Throughout the evening, members were recognized for outstanding service, leadership and dedication across the organization.
The ceremony celebrated major achievements from the past year while reflecting on the department’s continued growth, innovation and commitment to its mission: To serve our City and surrounding rural area in times of need, assist surrounding Cities when called upon, and to do so with pride, integrity and dedication. Always strive to improve in the areas of professionalism and training.
Collinsville Fire Chief Damon Stewart led the evening’s program, and was followed by guest speaker Chief Jeff Patterson, the Director of Emergency Services for the City of Whitesboro. The evening contained recognition of service milestones, Firefighter of the Year, EMT of the Year, Paramedic of the Year, Challenge Awards and a Badge pinning for two new Captains. The department also premiered a highlight video, showcasing moments from 2024–25.
Years of Service Awards recipients included:
45 Years of Service: Firefighter Gene Cox
40 Years of Service Assistant Fire Chief Benny McKee
35 Years of Service: Fire Chief Damon Stewart
30 Years of Service: Engineer Tom Krause
30 Years of Service: Engineer David Denning
25 Years of Service: Engineer Michael Hernandez
20 Years of Service: Division Chief Derek Stewart
20 Years of Service: Firefighter Stephen McDaniel
15 Years of Service: Arson Investigator Dillon Stewart
10 Years of Service: Captain Ben Hatton
10 Years of Service: Captain Dreyton Stewart
10 Years of Service: Firefighter Taylor Bennett
5 Years of Service: Firefighter Jarrett Whisenant
Awards for Exceptional Service included:
Firefighter of the Year: Firefighter Cody West
Officer of the Year: Captain Ben Hatton
EMT of the Year: Captain Dreyton Stewart
Paramedic of the Year: Captain James Yancy Klohn
The Challenge Award: Ethan Peach
The Challenge Award: Dreyton Stewart
Badge Pinning Ceremony:
Captain James “Yancy” Klohn
Captain Dreyton Stewart
The event served as a powerful reminder that the heart behind Collinsville Fire’s success is the dedicated men and women who protect the community every day. The department extends its deepest gratitude to the City Council, City leadership and Mayor for their ongoing support.
Our people are the fabric of our success. Because of their energy, service and relentless pursuit of excellence, the future of Collinsville Fire burns bright.
