ROCHESTER HILLS - The Rochester Hills Fire Department recently held its annual Fire Awards ceremony recognizing members for their bravery, leadership and commitment to public safety throughout the past year.

The Firefighter of the Year was awarded to Firefighter Cody Martell, who was recognized for his outstanding courage, professionalism, and deep commitment to the community. He has demonstrated exceptional dedication by consistently going above and beyond in his duties, including volunteering for extra shifts and earning specialized technical certifications. Martell
also serves as a leader and mentor, playing a key role in training new recruits and setting a high standard for all his peers.

The EMS Provider of the Year was awarded to Firefighter Anthony Summers. Summers is an exemplary EMS provider, celebrated for his decisive leadership and clinical proficiency. His ability to think critically under pressure, and his calm, confident command of critical situations has earned him the complete trust and respect of his colleagues.

“These awards are a vital reminder of the extraordinary dedication and courage demonstrated daily by every member of our department,” said Rochester Hills Fire Chief Todd Gary. “It is my honor to celebrate their achievements and reflect on the unwavering commitment they make to our community. They truly set the standard for excellence in fire service.”

Said Mayor Bryan K. Barnett, "I am incredibly proud of the outstanding achievements recognized by these awards as well as the day-to-day dedication our men and women show to the community. We have the very best people serving our residents and I am grateful for the sacrifices they make every day to make a difference in the lives of others.”

The Medal of Honor, the highest form of recognition awarded to a member whose act of extraordinary heroism substantially contributed to the saving or attempted saving of a life at great personal risk, was awarded to Lt. Dave Kopko and Mike Littlefield for rendering aid when a propane tank exploded outside a business on Main Street in the City of Rochester in May 2024.

Two members of the department - Lt. Derek Gardner and Summers - were awarded the Medal of Valor for their response to the tragic shooting at the Brooklands Splash Pad in June 2024, while Lt. Chris Ogg received the Medal of Valor for saving two people from a house fire on John R Road in December 2024. The Medal of Valor is awarded to a member of the department whose act of bravery substantially contributed to the saving or attempted saving of a life.

The Ben Franklin Fire Service Leadership Award, presented to a member of the RHFD who best exemplifies the qualities of leadership and integrity of the American Fire Service, was awarded to Lt. Loren Mitchell.

The Mark Belkoff Officer of the Year, given for strong leadership skills and assisting in the positive development and growth of the RHFD, was awarded to Lt. Rich Markovitch.

About the City of Rochester Hills

Established in 1984, the City of Rochester Hills is a prosperous community offering residents and businesses superior services. Voted the best place to live in Michigan and #9 best place to live in America by U.S. News & World Report, Rochester Hills is committed to sustaining its position among the nation’s preeminent places to live, work and raise a family. Through the
city’s focus on health, education, and technology, the community continues to attract forward-thinking leaders and businesses.



Lt. Chris Ogg- Medal of Valor


Lt. Derek Gardner- Medal of Valor


Anthony Summers- EMS Provider of the Year


Cody Martell- Firefighter of the Year


Lt. Loren Mitchell- Ben Franklin Fire Service Leadership Award


Lt. Rich Markovitch- Mark Belkoff Officer of the Year


Lt. Dave Kopko and Mike Littlefield- Medal of Honor