The Clinton Fire Department is proud to announce that our very own Fire Lieutenant Ryan T. Winkler has been awarded Firefighter of the Year by the American Legion. This honor was bestowed upon him August 31, 2022 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin at the National Legion Convention. Congratulations to Lieutenant Ryan T. Winkler on this award.
An Iowa firefighter and a Virginia county sheriff were honored August 31, 2022 during The American Legion National Convention in Milwaukee.
Lt. Ryan T. Winkler, a member of the Clinton Fire Department in Iowa, was named the 2022 National Firefighter of the Year. He also volunteers as a first responder and training officer with the Charlotte Volunteer Fire Department in his hometown.
Winkler was cited for his bravery, which included his actions during a house fire on May 23, 2019. Entering the window of a burning home, he found an unresponsive resident laying on the floor. Despite significant flames, Winkler and fellow members of his crew were able to rescue the victim – who would be hospitalized and ultimately survive his injuries.
Winkler has been a member of the Clinton Fire Department since 2009 and holds an associate’s degree in Fire Science from Kirkwood Community College.