Special Photo / The Atlanta Fire Foundation, a nonprofit set up to help businesses and individuals donate to the Atlanta Fire Rescue Department, recently hosted its fourth annual Breakfast with Our Bravest awards ceremony at the Atlanta Marriott Buckhead Hotel & Conference Center. The Medal of Valor was awarded for an act of bravery or heroism that clearly places the recipient in a life-threatening situation. The honor went to Sgt.. Mike O'Toole and Firefighter Quante Singleton, who searched a fully involved house March 22, 2013, without the aid of a hose line and rescuing an unconscious fire victim who was overcome with smoke. The Award of Merit was presented to two members of the Atlanta Fire Rescue Department for acts heroism or bravery involving great personal risk. For the apprehension of fleeing armed robbery suspect on March 22, 2013, Firefighter Craig Dowdell received this honor. For removing a fellow firefighter from imminent danger of electrocution at a working fire on June 23, Firefighter Carlos Fernandez also was awarded. The Firefighter of the Year Award, which recognizes that firefighter whose overall work, performance, service, spirit and accomplishment exemplify the highest traditions of service and dedication to the mission and vision of Atlanta Fire Rescue, went to Lt. Mike Williams. Among the recipient's impressive feats are instituting an in-station module class to promote success, assisting in managing the Quick Response Unit and taking control of a fire at a neighbor's house.  In addition to honoring these sacrifices, the foundation also honored Atlanta law firm Troutman Sanders LLC with the Fire Chief's Award of Distinction for a group achievement. The recipient is chosen by the Fire Chief Kelvin Cochran and recognizes distinguished service to the Atlanta Fire Rescue Department. Troutman Sanders has been a steadfast and longstanding supporter of the department through significant financial support, pro-bono estate planning and more. From left, Fire Chief Kelvin Cochran, Sgt. Mike O'Toole, Firefighter and Medal of Valor Award recipient Quante Singleton, Claudie Nash and Atlanta Fire Foundation Chairman Jacques Murphy.
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