This award recognizes an outstanding career or volunteer combat firefighter, or company, for service above and beyond the call of duty
Chief Chet Tharpe was the first Hillsborough County Fire Marshal and Fire Rescue Chief. This recognition, in his name, can be for an act of heroism, unusual dedication, or significant program impact for our public's safety.
Selection process
Each June, nominations are submitted to the Fire Personnel Chief. Fire Rescue Executive Staff review all nominations and make a recommendation to the Fire Chief, who then selects the winner for the year.
Award recipients
- 2015 David Macaluso
- 2014 Jeremy Tabak
- 2013 William Derek Bell
- 2012 Jay McKeehan
- 2011 Richard Hauser
- 2010 Tracy MacDonald
- 2009 David Raasch
- 2008 Ernie Warco, Sr.
- 2007 Bobby Kostopoulos
- 2006 William Riley
- 2005 William Bailey
- 2004 William Watson
- 2003 Jerry A. Smith
- 2002 Robert Cullins
- 2001 Darryl Dzugen
- 2000 Clint Roberts
- 1999 Kevin McFaul
- 1998 Douglas Shirley
- 1997 Patti Traina
- 1996 Jay O’Driscoll
- 1995 Clint Roberts/Thurnell “Chip” Shields
- 1994 James A. Olsen
- 1993 Kelly Hallman