SC Wisconsin News

Representative Alex Dallman (R-Green Lake) has announced Troy W. Haase as the recipient of the 2023 First Responder of the Year Award from the 41st Assembly District. Haase, who serves as the City of Portage Fire Chief, was presented with the award during a ceremony in the Wisconsin Assembly Chambers, surrounded by his family.

In his announcement, Rep. Dallman expressed his admiration for Chief Haase's exceptional service and leadership, stating, "With over 30 years of fire service experience, Chief Haase is very deserving of this award. His service and leadership to our community is unmatched and we are thankful to have him here in Wisconsin and in the Portage community!"

The First Responder of the Year award was established in 2019 to recognize the selfless work of first responders, including firefighters, police officers, sheriffs, and EMS personnel, in communities across Wisconsin. The award seeks to honor those who exemplify heroism, professional achievement, or have notable length of service.

Chief Haase began his career as a firefighter and EMT in the Portage community in 1990. He then pursued leadership opportunities in various cities across Wisconsin before being named the Wisconsin Fire Inspector of the Year in 2018. In 2020, Chief Haase returned to Portage, where he currently serves as the City of Portage Fire Chief, leading a department of 27 staff members.

Expressing gratitude for the recognition, Chief Haase said, "It is an honor to be recognized as the First Responder of the Year on behalf of the countless men and women who serve our communities across the 41st Assembly District. I want to especially thank my family, the Portage Fire Department staff, and all the volunteers who help keep our communities safe each day."

Local first responders have praised Chief Haase's leadership, particularly during incidents such as a large fire at a local dairy plant and two other significant fires at the waste processing plant. One nominator commended Chief Haase for his dedication to his crew, stating, "Chief Haase also demonstrates his leadership in the longevity of his crew, providing seasoned first responders to protect the community."

In addition to honoring Chief Haase, the State Assembly passed a resolution designating October 17, 2023, as First Responders Appreciation Day in Wisconsin.

For more information, contact Representative Alex Dallman of the 41st Assembly District at (608) 266-8077 or Rep.Dallman@legis.wisconsin.gov.

To find out more, go to this link: https://legis.wisconsin.gov/assembly/41/dallman/news-updates/press-releases/rep-dallman-announces-troy-w-haase-as-first-responder-of-the-year/