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PALM BAY, FLORIDA (January 26, 2026): The City of Palm Bay will host a special recognition ceremony honoring members of Palm Bay Fire Rescue for outstanding service and life-saving actions. The recognition will take place on Thursday February 5, at 5:30 PM in the City Council Chambers at Palm Bay City Hall, before the regular City Council meeting. The community is invited to attend and help celebrate these accomplishments. A cake reception will follow the recognition.

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During the ceremony, the City will formally recognize Palm Bay Fire Rescue employees who were recently honored by the Space Coast Fire Chiefs’ Association during its annual awards ceremony:

• Firefighter of the Year: Kolter Klasek
• Chief Officer of the Year: Brian Miller
• Inspector of the Year: Valerie Baptiste

In addition, Lieutenants Cam Drake and Chris Childs will be recognized for their life-saving actions during the annual Jingle Bell 2 Mile race held in Satellite Beach on December 20, 2025.

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According to Satellite Beach Fire Department officials, a runner collapsed and went into cardiac arrest during the event. While an on-duty standby crew initiated patient care, Lieutenants Drake and Childs, who were participating in the race off duty, immediately stopped to assist. Their actions helped support advanced care efforts during a critical moment. The patient was successfully resuscitated and was alert while being transported to the hospital.

“These actions show how much they care for others and that firefighters are never truly off duty,” shared Satellite Beach Fire Department leadership in correspondence recognizing their efforts.

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