Kevin Schuelke Named Milbank Firefighter of the Year

Today, May 4, is International Firefighters Day. It is a day set aside to thank some of the world’s greatest heroes and remember our fallen firefighters – those brave men and women who were lost in the line of duty.

In honor of all firefighters who put their lives on the line every day, The Valley Express has named Kevin Schuelke 2022 Firefighter of the Year for the Milbank Fire and Rescue Department.

Schuelke was presented with the first annual award for over 35 years of service as a firefighter and many of those years as fire chief. He is also head of Grant County Emergency Management and has segued into the role of fire administrator for the fire department after he retired from his position as fire chief in April. 

Schuelke, who seemed stunned to receive an award for his contributions to the fire department, said, “Wow! This is amazing. I can’t believe I’m getting an award. This is the coolest thing ever!” His modesty was refreshing, but it is a well-deserved honor.

During his tenure as fire chief, Schuelke was directly in charge of ensuring the fire department received the training and proper equipment to do their job. He was also directly responsible for the safety of the men under his command. He performed all of these duties admirably, especially if you consider the phrase “to do more for the world than the world does for you, that is success!”