Photo Courtesy of Tracy Owens/Wellman Fire Dept.

Wellman Volunteer Firefighter Jim Millice was recognized last week by the Iowa Firefighters Association as Iowa Firefighter of the Year. Millice was honored at the IFA Mid-year Meeting at the Gateway Hotel in Ames. The award is given each year by the IFA Board of Directors. He was nominated by Wellman Volunteer Fire Department Secretary/Treasurer Tracy Owens who tells KCII News that, “Millice has served with the department for more than 60 years and while he doesn’t go out to active scenes, he is always one of the first to the station getting things ready on a call, helping where needed with unlocking doors and getting gear ready. He is an important part of the spirit of the department, willing to lend a hand wherever needed.” Millice spoke with KCII News this week about the award, “I felt that I didn’t deserve it. You know, for the whole state of Iowa? I couldn’t believe it. I really felt honored, it was nice. I got into it back in 1959. My dad was on the fire department and he was Assistant Chief at that time and I saw what they were doing in the community. I’ve enjoyed it over the years. You really have to have a dedication to stick with something like that.”

He was honored for 60 years of service by the Wellman Department in 2020. The IFA defines their criteria for Firefighter of the Year as being given to an individual who exemplifies outstanding commitment to the fire service through his or her character, continuing education, service to the community and leadership.