Firefighters across Portage Co. honored by humane society
By Brandi Makuski
Stevens Point — The Humane Society of Portage County recognized several local firefighters at the 2024 “Walk for Wags” event for their dedicated service and recent heroic efforts in saving animals’ lives.
The event took place on June 23 at Pfiffner Pioneer Park in Stevens Point. It was the first time in the event’s history that special recognition was offered to First Responders who saved animals from structure fires in the past 12 months.
According to Sherri Galle-Teske, executive director of the HSPC, other rescues were made during the past year, but some firefighters declined recognition because the animal they attempted to save ultimately did not survive.
Honorees include:
- Chief Jeremy Spencer, Stockton Fire Department
- Ben Schultz, Stevens Point Fire Department
- Shane Westphal, Stevens Point Fire Department
- Bobby Sullivan, Plover Fire Department
- Eric Krug, Plover Fire Department
Channel 7’s Jeff Thelen served as the event’s emcee, where the firefighters’ stories of animal rescues were shared, and each received a commemorative plaque.
“Walk for Wags” was sponsored by Team Schierl and featured a variety of activities, including business and craft booths, children’s games, a pet costume contest, music by “Jock in the Box” Dave Acaley, Caricatures by Joey, and Cycling Without Age Portage County.
See the video below: