Firefighter of the Year 2022: Jerry Petersheim started attending and helping out at Fire Company events at a young age. He applied to join the Fire Company at age 14. Beyond many role models in his family being actively involved at Hand-in-Hand, Jerry said he was initially drawn to the lights and sirens. It was a way a young boy could be “destructive,” and it was allowed. A year later at age 15, the weight of responsibility hit him, and he realized the community importance of being involved with the Fire Company. “It is a good way to keep you out of trouble.” There was a two-year period where Jerry was less involved, but he always wanted to come back. “There’s just more community here, and the open dialogue shows that we really care about what the community has to say, and how we can serve them better.” Jerry enjoys serving on various committees including Organization & Response (a Human Resources subcommittee). He continues to learn more and more about the Fire Company’s equipment and its capabilities as he helps the New Engine Committee research and purchase a new engine.