On Tuesday October 26, 2021 four firefighters with the Columbia-Richland Fire Department were recognized for the quick and decisive action they took to safely bring a baby into the world in early October.
Fire Chief Aubrey D. Jenkins presented the crew of Engine 11-1st Shift with the department’s Stork Award during a brief ceremony at CRFD Headquarters on Tuesday, October 26, 2021. Among guests in attendance at the ceremony was the Dempsey family of Columbia.
On Friday October 8, 2021 firefighters on Engine 11 responded to the Dempsey home after getting reports from 9-1-1 that a woman was in labor. The crew arrived on scene and delivered the baby girl, who came in weighing 7 pounds, 8 ounces.
Michael Dempsey and his wife Katelyn would name their new daughter Ellie. She was also in attendance as Engine 11 was formally recognized for their work.
“This crew did a fantastic job in carrying out their duties on this call,” Chief Jenkins said, “They had just cleared from another medical call on October 8 when they were asked to respond to this critical scene at the Dempsey home. Seeing this newborn child doing so well is a true testament to their work that day. Our entire department applauds them.”
Congratulations to the members of CRFD Engine 11 – 1st Shift.
Fire Captain David Cooper Engineer Devon Ash
Firefighter Shannon Peters Firefighter David Palevich
