Lt. Amanda Scheller named 2011 Firefighter of the Year
Award Presented by the Naperville Exchange Club Earlier this Month
The City of Naperville is proud to announce that Fire Department Lieutenant Amanda Scheller was recently named the 2011 Naperville Exchange Club Firefighter of the Year. Scheller received her award during a luncheon ceremony that took place on November 4 at Meson Sabika.
A member of the Naperville Fire Department for the past 13 years, Scheller has worked for 20 years in fire service. She holds the honor of being the first female officer in the department's history and has received several merit and unit citations throughout her tenure. Scheller serves as a member of the dive team and is a swift water rescue technician and an emergency rescue diver.
“Lieutenant Scheller is an extremely valuable member of the Naperville Fire Department,” Fire Chief Mark Puknaitis said. “She is active in our department's services and is constantly volunteering to assume more responsibility, including a total revision of our Department Manual and preparatory work for the department's accreditation process. I consider her one of our most valued assets and know she will continue to shine in her endeavors.”
Scheller also serves on the department's recruitment team and honor guard. In addition, she is a member of the fire investigation team and has expanded her efforts by serving on the DuPage County Arson Task Force. She also acts as a Program Coordinator for the department's Juvenile Fire Setter Program where she strives to help children of all ages that are recognized as needing intervention. She also serves as a field instructor for the training division and is a certified safety officer.
“Each year, the Exchange Club pays honor to an outstanding firefighter and police officer,” said Exchange Club Americanism committee chairperson Marty Walker. “Lieutenant Scheller was an outstanding choice for this year's firefighter award. Her dedication to our community is admirable. On behalf of the Exchange Club, congratulations to Lieutenant Scheller.”
As the 10th recipient of this award, Scheller will have the opportunity to serve as a tasting judge during next year's Ribfest and take part in the Labor Day parade. She will also assist the Shanower family with placing a wreath at the Cmdr. Dan Shanower Memorial during the September 11 remembrance event.
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