A Riley County firefighter was recently presented the Harold Bellman Award, the highest honor presented by Riley County Fire District No. 1.
John Wienck, a second generation winner, was recognized at the fire department’s annual awards banquet in January. Known for having a positive attitude, Wienck was recognized for his firefighting skills, but also for leadership in training new volunteers. He’s also actively involved in various community roles as a cattle producer, farmer and a member of the Riley County Planning and Development Board. His father Ivan Wienck also won the award in 2003.
Wienck issued the following statement after receiving the award.
“First, it is a nice honor. Harold Bellman was a great man and a pioneer of Riley County Fire. Having known Harold Bellman for all my life, until he died, it is humbling to win an award dedicated to him. Second, it makes me feel pretty good as a second-generation winner. It shows the dedication my dad and I have to Riley County Fire. It is quite an honor, overall,” he said.
Former award winner, long-time Riley County Emergency Management Director Pat Collins recalls working with both generations of Wiencks.
“John’s a lot like his dad. He’s always there when you need him. He’s not afraid to explain himself or tell you what he thinks, he’s up front with people, and you can count on calling John or Ivan to tell you what they think, whether you like it or not,” he said.
The award honors the legacy of Harold Bellman, a former Randolph mayor who played a pivotal role in consolidation of the fire district. County officials say the award is a symbol of recognition for those who have served the department for an extended period and have demonstrated exceptional leadership.
Most of the past winners have held the position of battalion chief.
Harold Bellman Award Winners
2001- Harold Bellman
2002- Ralph Weller
2003- Ivan Wienck
2004- Roy Prestwood
2005- Ross Hauck
2006- Pat Collins
2008- Don Nelson
2009- David Russell
2010- Ernie Jordan
2011- Bruce Zimmer
2012- Doug Messer
2013- Roger Davis
2014- Dan Richards
2015- Bruce Kaump
2016- Howard Sump
2017- Jeff Holmes
2018- Harry Bellman
2019- Raymond Larson
2020- Charlie Peterson
