St. John Fire Department in St. John, Indiana, recently recognized Lieutenant Scott T. Clifford (Epsilon Rho–Purdue ’04) as its 2023 Firefighter of the Year. Subsequently, he was also honored by Albert’s Diamond Jewelers as one of their Hometown Heroes. Clifford, along with several other first responders, received an award and a Citizen Thin Blue (or Red) Line watch, created specifically for first responders.
Clifford, a part-time volunteer firefighter and EMT outside of his full-time job was shocked when he heard of his selection.
“There is a sense of pride that is associated with this [award],” Clifford said. “It’s motivation to keep moving forward. I was honored that the chief thought of me.”
Nominated for his efforts in reorganizing and revitalizing the Volunteer Division of the department, Clifford compares his experience turning around a stagnant volunteer firefighter force with his experience in his KA chapter.
“I could harken back to my experience re-chartering Epsilon Rho in 2004 as there were similarities in challenges and resolutions in this endeavor. ”
As an undergraduate, Clifford served as Number I and has stayed involved as an alumnus serving on the Alumni Advisory Committee, as President of the Housing Corporation, and as Vice President of the Illiana Alumni Chapter. He is a member of the Loyal Order and a 7-year member of the KAOEF’s Crimson & Gold Society.
Read the full article by Times of Northwest Indiana
Cover photo by Lizzie Kaboski
