LIBERTY — A regular trustees meeting was a special one for some township first responders as their fire chief recognized them — and members of neighboring departments — for their service.

Fire Chief Doug Theobald noted that he didn’t know where they would be without their firefighters and several policemen, who assisted on several big calls in 2025.

Theobald commended and presented police Sgt. Dave Rankin and officers Tyler Beck, Kenny Griffin and Colin Trayes with a meritorious service ribbon for their efforts during a June 7 house explosion, which critically injured three. Two victims, including a 4-year-old, died.

“During this critical incident, police officers worked alongside fire and EMS personnel, assisted in patient care, secured the emergency scene and provided immediate aid to the victims in a rapidly evolving environment,” Theobald said. “Their decisive action and calm leadership and willingness to place themselves in harm’s way ensured that lifesaving care could be delivered quickly and effectively.”

Theobald commended and presented firefighter/EMT Alec Coman and firefighter/paramedic Erik Lyszaz with the award as well, noting that Lyszaz was one of the first responders to arrive on the scene.

Theobald said Lyszaz worked alongside multiple EMS units to transport and care for the explosion’s victims.

Theobald presented lieutenants Ronnie Simone and Matthew Gray with the Medal of Courage for their assistance during the explosion.

“The firefighters demonstrated exceptional bravery, decisive action and unwavering commitment to duty in the hazardous rescue of a male victim,” Theobald said. “And providing lifesaving care exemplifies the highest traditions of the fire service and reflects great credit upon the firefighters and the community service.”

Theobald also presented certificates of lifesaving meticulous service to City of Girard fire Chief James Petruzzi, Eagle Joint Fire District fire Chief Ron Stanish and Lt. Cory Hinderliter, as well as Vienna fire Chaplain Tom Powell Jr., who accepted it on behalf of fire Chief Gus Birch.

“The firefighters and fire departments demonstrated exceptional bravery, professionalism and dedication to duty,” Theobald said.

Theobald said after the meeting that there have not been any updates from the Ohio State Fire Marshal, Youngstown Bomb Squad or Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, reiterating that he doesn’t expect an update until a year after the incident.

Captains William Opsitnik, firefighter/EMT Judd Radovic and firefighter/medics Daniel Beauchene and Robert Shape were given an award of commendation ribbon for their lifesaving efforts for a man who was choking and found unresponsive upon arrival.

“Rapid intervention removed the obstruction — however, the patient subsequently collapsed and went into cardiac arrest as a result of the airway blockage,” Theobald said. “Advanced medical support measures were immediately initiated. Through decisive medical care, the patient’s vital signs returned; the patient was stabilized and taken to the hospital.”

Lyszaz, Lt. Chuck Wise and firefighter/EMT Brian Gordon received an award of commendation ribbon, too, for their response to an allergic reaction to a bee sting.

Theobald said the reaction developed into a life-threatening condition, resulting in the need for emergency care that saved the patient’s life.