Although he’s only been on the department for five years, Ben Goenner has definitely caught the attention of his colleagues as he was recently named the Clear Lake Fire Department’s Firefighter of the Year.

“Ben is a five year veteran of the department and has been an outstanding firefighter since joining,” says Chief Ron Koren.  “He volunteers for many activities for the department and is professional in the performance of all duties.”

Goenner says he was extremely surprised to learn of the award, which was announced the same night he received his five year service pin.

“My initial reaction was disbelief — surprised and caught completely off guard,” Goenner says.  “I don’t mentally put myself in the running for these types of things so I had no idea how to react. Once I realized that my peers had somehow chosen me out of a group of people who put in efforts, in my opinion, even greater than mine I became rather humbled and grateful.”

Goenner and his family are long-time residents of the area and the ability to help others in his hometown was appealing to him for a variety of reasons.  He says he first joined the department out of a desire to serve others and to help people at what may be their greatest time of need. 

“The Fire and Rescue Department gave me an opportunity to do that without having to give up my career or move like I would probably have had to with a Police Department or Military service,” Goenner says.

When asked what advice he would give to others who are considering joining the department, he simply says that all the work is worth it.

“It takes dedication to get started and then to make it through the initial training,” Goenner says.  “The reward for helping the community, friendships made and lessons learned along the way are worth the effort.”

Goenner surely enjoys his duties as a firefighter and Emergency Medical Responder and can see himself staying on the department for years to come.  He also credits the many other department members who have provided plenty of guidance to help him succeed.  He was quick to point out his gratitude for everyone who has invested the time and energy to help him during the early years of his career.

“I first credit God for giving me a drive to want to help people in difficult times and that I wouldn’t have gotten this far if it wasn’t for the great people I get to work with on the department,” Goenner says.  “Those who’ve answered my questions, gave direction and helped me in so many ways that have allowed me to grow into the Fire Fighter I am today. Without them and their help this wouldn’t have been possible.”