Howell firefighters gathered last week to honor their best and brightest, including one who stood above and beyond.

Firefighter Jeff Robson (right) was named as the 2017 Howell Area Fire Department’s Firefighter of the Year. His boss, Howell Fire Chief Andy Pless (left), praised his “passion for public education” and noted that he was an, “asset to the department not only because of his firefighting abilities, but also because of his ability to lighten the mood and make people laugh after those difficult calls.” Robson joined the department in 2012 and according to Chief Pless, his, “efforts, energy, and expertise have increased the Howell Area Fire Department’s overall capabilities, exemplifying the selfless image that the public associates with the fire service.”

Also honored at the ceremony were Assistant Chiefs Mike Randall and Gary Beal, Captains Mike Petrosky and Andrea Williams-Appelyard and Firefighters Steve Moor, Chad Allen and James Krywko with Life Saving Awards. A complete list of award winners is posted below. (JK)