The Morgan County Association of Volunteer Firefighters singled out eight individuals and two fire departments for special recognition at its annual awards banquet at Fairview Church of God in Falkville April 14.

The Award of Valor went to Heath Hawkins, a member of Priceville Fire Department. Hawkins was honored for the heroism he demonstrated on May 27, 2011, when he rescued a man from his burning car.

Other individuals receiving awards are listed as follows: Carlos Mantano, Talucah, Rookie of the Year; Tina Jones, Punkin Center, Female EMT of the Year; Brandon Hawkins, Priceville, Male EMT of the Year; Anita Abbett, Lacey’s Spring, Female Firefighter of the Year; Jonathan Peters, Punkin Center, Male Firefighter of the Year;

Cody Poole, Punkin Center, Robert J. Miller Youth Leadership Award; Malea Garner, Ryan, Boyce Walker Community Service Award; and Richard Ennis, Mud Tavern, Chief of the Year.

Danville VFD was recognized as the Most Improved Department of the Year and Priceville VFD was honored as Department of the Year.

Al Faulkner, director of the Alabama Emergency Management Agency was guest speaker.