CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Fla. (March 6, 2026) - Charlotte County Fire & EMS Lieutenant Jefferson Mendel has been named the 2025 Career Firefighter of the Year by Florida Chief Financial Officer and State Fire Marshal Blaise Ingoglia.

The annual Fire Service Awards recognize firefighters across Florida for extraordinary service and are presented in partnership with the Florida Professional Firefighters, Florida Fire Chiefs Association, Florida State Firefighters Association, Florida Fire Marshals and Inspectors Association, Florida Fire Training Directors Association, and the Florida Emergency Preparedness Association.

"I was proud to recognize some of the extraordinary firefighters who answer the call and run toward danger while others run away," said CFO and State Fire Marshal Blaise Ingoglia. "Their courage, sacrifice, and dedication to protecting Floridians is truly unmatched. As State Fire Marshal, I want to thank these firefighters for their exceptional work to keep our communities safe every single day."

Lt. Mendel was recognized for his leadership and lifesaving actions during two separate structure fires in Charlotte County within his first year as a lieutenant.

On May 20, 2025, crews responded to a structure fire on Barre Drive with multiple occupants trapped inside a heavily involved home with extreme fire conditions. Firefighters located a small bathroom window about five feet off the ground as the only viable entry point. Lt. Mendel entered through the window with other firefighters and helped rescue multiple victims from the home under heavy smoke and heat conditions. In total, five occupants were removed from the structure during active fire conditions. Lt. Mendel later received the department's Medal of Valor for his actions.

Later that year, Lt. Mendel again played a key role during a structure fire on McGuire Avenue involving a trapped occupant. Crews encountered heavy fire and limited access due to metal hurricane shutters. Lt. Mendel worked alongside firefighters to locate and remove the victim through a window while crews battled advancing fire conditions. CPR was initiated on scene, pulse regained, and the patient was transported by helicopter to Blake Medical Center.

"Lt. Mendel demonstrated incredible courage and leadership during two very dangerous incidents," said Fire Chief Matthew McElroy. "To see that level of performance from a company officer in his first year speaks volumes about his professionalism, training, and commitment to protecting lives. We are extremely proud to see him recognized across the state for his service to our community."

About the CFO

Florida Chief Financial Officer and State Fire Marshal Blaise Ingoglia serves as the state's top financial watchdog, a member of the Florida Cabinet, and head of the Florida Department of Financial Services. As State Fire Marshal, he works to support Florida's first responders as they serve and protect communities across the state.

For information, contact Ashley Turner at 941-833-5610 or [email protected].

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