San Leon Fire 2026 Annual Installation of Officers and Awards Ceremony

 
By Engineer JEFF PITTMAN
March 22, 2026
 

Members of the department recently gathered to celebrate another year of dedication and service to the community. The event highlighted the strong commitment of all personnel, acknowledging their ongoing contributions and achievements.
The evening provided an opportunity for members to connect, reflect on their accomplishments, and look forward to the year ahead. The department remains focused on its mission of protecting and serving the community.
During the awards ceremony, Certificates of Promotion were presented to Robert Saldierna, Jody Garcia, Edward Munoz, Angelo Lopez, Natalya Ligon, Lorenzo Salazar, and Nestor Rizo. Certificates of Appreciation were awarded to Allen Grice, Jeff Pittman, Jack Johnson, Jair Campos, Anthony Ritter, Austin Williams, Faith Leon, Ethan Prudhomme, Shane Harris, Mauricio Nunez, and Joey Gay.
Certificates of Completion for the Fire Academy were given to Nestor Rizo, Aurora Cook, Autumn Tuthill, Diego Cruz Mendoza, Ethan Prudhomme, Shane Harris, Betzabe Alvarez, Jasper Hoffman, and Jason “J.J.” Garcia.
The Leadership Award went to Vicente Garcia, Robert Saldierna, Jody Garcia, and Edward Munoz. Robert Saldierna was named Officer of the Year, while Manuel Cruz Matus was recognized as Firefighter of the Year. Natalya Ligon received both Rookie of the Year and First Responder of the Year honors. Angelo Lopez was presented with the Night Owl award.
Jody Garcia and Steven Jamison received the Chief’s Award. Top Responder recognition went to Angelo Lopez for first place, Natalya Ligon for second, and Jody Garcia for third. Specialty awards included a Certificate of Recognition for Mentoring and Guidance to Jeff Pittman and the Outstanding Volunteer Service Award to Vicente Garcia.
Autumn Tuthill was honored with the Most Energetic award. Betzabe Alvarez was recognized as the Backbone of the Department, while Aurora Cook received the Pillar of Excellence Award. Jasper Hoffman was named Outstanding Recruit, and Jason “J.J.” Garcia was acknowledged for Command Presence and Academic Excellence.