DAWSONVILLE, Ga. — Dawson County firefighter/paramedic James Rutmann was presented the 2016-2017 Fire Fighter Award in ceremony Wednesday. The award was presented by John Kepler and Commander David Hopkins Jr. of VFW Post 9143.

Rutmann was selected for his career service as a firefighter and for his service to the community, in both Dawson and Forsyth counties. During the presentation, Commander Hopkins read aloud the wording on the plaque: “In Special Recognition and Highest Praise for Alertness, Personal Courage and Ever Vigilant Guardianship of Life and Property.”

James responded, “I love my work, and I am very humbled and honored to receive this award”.

In addition to his service as a firefighter and paramedic, Rutmann is well known for playing his bagpipes at funerals, special ceremonies, and other occasions across the state of Georgia and abroad. James Rutmann is a U.S. Navy Veteran and lives in Dawsonville.