VALOR Firefighter Alexandra Johnson, left, shakes hands with Fire Chief Dustin Gardner as she receives the meritorious service award during the 26th annual Ventura County Fire Department awards ceremony Feb. 16 at the Padre Serra Parish Center in Camarillo. Below, retired fire captain Scott Dettorre, left, of Moorpark receives the lifesaving citation medal from Gardner. Dettorre
VALOR Firefighter Alexandra Johnson, left, shakes hands with Fire Chief Dustin Gardner as she receives the meritorious service award during the 26th annual Ventura County Fire Department awards ceremony Feb. 16 at the Padre Serra Parish Center in Camarillo. Below, retired fire captain Scott Dettorre, left, of Moorpark receives the lifesaving citation medal from Gardner. Dettorre
STANDING TALL The Ventura County Fire Department recognizes 59 individuals for their service and sacrifice during its 26th awards ceremony held Feb. 16 at the Padre Serra Parish Center in Camarillo. Photos by MICHAEL COONS/Acorn Newspapers Every first responder dedicates their life to serving others. But some, said Ventura County Fire Chief Dustin Gardner, rise above