First Responder Community Hero Award: Al Martinez

Tahoe Douglas Rotary has been a part of the South Shore community since 1962, and, as are the other 1.2 million Rotarians in the world, are bound by a commong purpose, Service Above Self. The club felt it was an ideal fit to recognize police and fire professionals in the community who make sacrifies every day to serve and protect.
During the week, South Tahoe Now will highlight each of this year's winners of the inagural First Responder Community Hero Award.

The awards recognize the South Shore's local police and fire professionals who serve the community. As part of the club's 47th annual St. Patrick's Day celebration they will recognize heroes from Tahoe Douglas Fire, Douglas County Sheriff, South Lake Tahoe Fire, Lake Valley Fire, South Lake Tahoe Police, and El Dorado County Sheriff.​

The third recipient of Community Hero Award is South Lake Tahoe Fire Firefighter/Paramedic Al Martinez. Al was selected by his peers based upon his outstanding efforts with public education. "He is a caring employee who wants to educate the public in all facets of fire and life safety," said SLTFD Chief Jeff Meston.

Tahoe-Douglas Rotary and the First Responder Community Hero Award Sponsors are proud to donate $1,000 to the H.E.R.O. Scholarship Fund in recognition of Ralph’s service to the community. Harrah’s Harveys will also offer a weekend of food, lodging and entertainment to Al to enjoy some R & R.

The first two honorees highlighted were Ralph Jones and Ron Elges.