Local firefighters honored at Statehouse for 50 years of service

Tuesday, May 5, 2026 at 9:00 PM

By Kathy Bottorff

Indiana Volunteer Firefighters Association (IVFA) celebrated the dedication and sacrifice of its longest-serving members during a special ceremony at the Indiana Statehouse on April 24.

The event honored 91 firefighters from across the state for reaching the remarkable milestone of five decades of service. In recognition of their half-century of commitment to their communities, the honorees were officially designated as IVFA Gold Card Life Members.

Several local heroes were among those recognized at the capital. John Grolich, District 5 IVFA Chairman, and Richard Glant, past President of the IVFA and Bremen fireman, were on hand to honor Scotty Holderman and Bremen Fire Chief Matt Neher at the ceremony. Denie Good from the Argos Fire Department was also honored for his 50 years of service as well.

Other area firefighters who achieved the 50-year milestone and received the prestigious Gold Card Life Member designation include Carl Middaugh from the Bourbon Fire Department and Russell Oberg from the Macy Fire Department.

Throughout the ceremony, these veteran firefighters were praised for their enduring sacrifice, bravery, and unwavering dedication to public safety over the last fifty years.