The City Council of Indianapolis held its 57th Annual Fire, Police & Deputy Sheriff's Community Recognition Luncheon on April 24, 2025, to honor outstanding service and dedication within the community's emergency services. The event celebrated the remarkable contributions of local firefighters, police officers, and deputies, highlighting their commitment to public safety and community welfare.

The luncheon began with the recognition of firefighters Ignacio Villa and Captain Gus Chavez, who volunteered their time to provide essential training for firefighters in Paraguay, Argentina, Brazil, and Chile. Their mission, which stemmed from a tragic incident in 2015 where three Paraguayan firefighters lost their lives due to inadequate training and lack of personal protective equipment, aimed to improve firefighting capabilities in these regions. With support from various fire departments, they successfully delivered training in high-rise operations, equipment usage, and cancer prevention, earning them the Community Service Firefighters of the Year award.

Next, Lieutenant Kempler of the Pike Township Fire Department was honored as Reserve Deputy of the Year. Kempler dedicates 50 to 80 hours each month as a reserve deputy while also serving as the division chief of fire prevention and fire marshal. His leadership and commitment to community service, including the training of a peer support canine, were highlighted as exemplary contributions to the Marion County Sheriff's Office.

The luncheon also recognized Private Matthew Perkins as Operations Firefighter of the Year. An eight-year veteran, Perkins is noted for his mentorship and mastery of firefighting skills. He recently completed a rigorous public safety scuba instructor course, demonstrating his commitment to enhancing the capabilities of his crew. His proactive approach and reliability in both on-duty and off-duty situations have made him a respected figure within the department.

The event concluded with a presentation of the Sheriff’s Administrative Deputy of the Year award, sponsored by the Indianapolis Colts, further emphasizing the collaborative spirit and dedication of those serving in public safety roles within the community. The luncheon served as a platform to acknowledge the hard work and sacrifices made by these individuals, reinforcing the importance of their roles in ensuring the safety and well-being of Indianapolis residents.