Several Meridian firefighters were recognized at a Meridian City Council meeting Tuesday for saving the life of a Meridian woman during a house fire in December 2024.

 

Noting that several of the firefighters were “newbies,” and even just one week into the position, Meridian Fire Chief Michael Evans commended the group for their acts of heroism.

 

“They fight fires every day but, on this day, they went above and beyond the call of duty,” Evans said.

 

On Dec. 12, 2004, the fire department responded to an early morning call at a residence in the 2100 block of 23rd Avenue.

 

“We were told a victim was inside the house,” Evans said. “Once inside, they found a woman on the bedroom floor, unresponsive.”

 

The woman was moved to a safe location and lifesaving procedures were performed.

 

“We have the best fire department in the state of Mississippi,” Evans boasted. “They used their training, experience and knowledge to get in their quick, get the victim out and save her life.”

 

Lifesaving medals were presented to Meridian firefighters: Capt. Brian McAlister, Capt. Chris Gaines, Capt. Jakob Hedgepeth, Capt. Gregory Pillsbury and Firefighter Casandra Gowdy.

 

Unit Support Accommodation medals were presented to the following Meridian firefighters: Battalion Chief Kenny Robinson, Capt. William Barr, Senior Fireman Lee Bohl, Firefighter Damon Ford, Firefighter Jaden Hollinsworth, Senior Firefighter Ben Owen, Senior Firefighter Juston Russell, Firefighter Danny Sciple and Firefighter Caden Wheat.

 

Corp. David McQueen of Meridian Police Department was also presented a Unit Support Accommodation medal for his assistance during the house fire.