1 minute read
St. Paul’s
Fire Department was a sense of community. I wanted to raise my family here because I knew it to be safe. I knew this town had police protection, fire protection, a volunteer ambulance service, safe schools and friendly people; people who helped each other when they needed it. I wanted to do my part to be a part of that safety net that everyone here enjoys,” Middlebrook explained. He spent a total of 48 years with the New Carlisle Fire Department. He spent the first 17 years of his career among the rank and 31 years as an officer and leader in various positions. Middlebrook spent numerous years as a training officer and 10 years as Fire Chief.
Middlebrook was awarded Indiana Firefighter of the Year in 2002 by the American Legion Department of Indiana. He was the first volunteer firefighter to receive it. He was also awarded the Global Excellence Award from the Indiana Volunteer Firefighters Association in 2013, Regional Firefighter of the Year Award from the Veterans of Foreign Wars in 2013, the Sagamore of the Wabash in 2015 and National Firefighter of the Year from the Veterans of Foreign Wars in 2016.
The Sagamore of the Wabash is the highest civilian award that can be received in Indiana. He was honored with the award not only for his time in fire service, but also for his volunteer service with the army and his numerous years of service as a CASA volunteer.
“My time as a firefighter not only influenced my life, but it has completely shaped it. You learn the value of selfless giving, you learn that you are repaid for your kindness and willingness to help those in need a thousand times over. Your life is filled with blessings when you serve the greater good,” Middlebrook explained.
Both of Middlebrook’s sons followed in his footsteps and became firemen.
