Contact: Ashley Lopez, Public Information Officer, Telephone: (352) 629-8306, Mobile: (352) 817-5914
Celebrating Excellence: Ocala Fire Rescue Honor Guard Wins First Place in 2026 Competition
There is an unparalleled level of reverence when witnessing the respect, discipline, and traditions upheld by Honor Guard Members during their ceremonial displays. Whether at a celebratory event or a distinguished farewell, their unwavering dedication to their craft commands attention and admiration.
Ocala Fire Rescue is thrilled to announce that its Honor Guard team has been awarded First Place in the 2026 First There First Care Honor Guard Competition. The team’s exceptional skills were showcased through a variety of ceremonial activities, including inspection, colors posting, casket watch, casket carry, and flag folding.
We invite everyone to join us in celebrating this remarkable achievement and recognizing the hard work of our Participating Honor Guard team members, including:
- Firefighter / EMT Andrew Bowyer
- Firefighter / EMT Michael Brittle
- Captain / Paramedic Tim Carver
- Firefighter / EMT Emanuel Del Rio
- Captain / Paramedic Nicole Kopolovits (not pictured)
- Fire Equipment Operator /Paramedic Christopher Maxon
- Fire Equipment Operator / Paramedic Jacqueline Nettles
Their exceptional ceremonial mastery has earned them the distinction of first-place winners. We are immensely proud of their dedication and commitment to honoring the traditions that define our service.
