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AFD Firefighter is Presented with Firefighter of the Year Award

On Monday, September 10th AFD Lt. Martin Salazar was recognized as New Mexico’s 2012 Firefighter of the Year. The ceremony took place in Socorro at the NM State Firefighter’s Conference. Lt. Salazar’s family was there to celebrate this momentous occasion.

Salazar's constant desire to help the citizens of Albuquerque and his fellow firefighters is one of the reasons he was honored with this award. He has assisted with the collection of money and items to send to firefighters serving overseas in Afghanistan. He has taken the lead to organize golf tournaments and other fundraisers for firefighters suffering from lifeMartin Salazar threatening brain tumors. He never hesitates to take on any challenge or difficult task whether on or off duty. Salazar also volunteered to drive a command vehicle from NM to Oklahoma to assist with rehabilitation for the runners during the Tour of Duty run which represents public safety personnel.

“We are extremely proud of Lt. Martin Salazar. This award clearly represents his dedication and compassion to his fellow firefighters, his department, and the community he so proudly serves”, said Albuquerque Fire Chief James Breen.