When the call goes out, Manheim Township Fire Rescue (MTFR) first responders have more immediate problems pressing on their minds than the functionality and the reliability of their apparatus. They trust the mechanical health of their vehicles to Lamar Sauder's work. In that way, the fleet mechanic's excellence indirectly helps save lives.

"I think the biggest thing is that everything is as 100% perfect as it can be for any emergency that comes up," said Sauder, a Willow Street resident who's been MTFR's fleet mechanic for nine years. "If you're in the middle of a call, you're not going to get there if something breaks down. My goal is to have that piece (apparatus) as close to 100% as it can be when it leaves the station. I can't say to the guys, 'Try it and see if it works.'"

In the early days of September, Sauder was honored as the national publication Firehouse Magazine's 2024 Emergency Vehicle Technician (EVT) of the Year. After receiving nominations from across the country, the magazine selected Sauder for the prestigious award because of his standard of excellence and the safety records exhibited by the emergency vehicles under his care.

"Chief (Scott) Little nominated me last year, and I finished like 22nd or 23rd, but I didn't know he nominated me again this year," said Sauder. "When he called me up to his office, he said, 'You're no longer a runner-up. You are "the man." (Firehouse Magazine officials) did the review, and you're the new EVT of the Year.' I just said, 'Oh, my word.' So, I called my wife and said, 'You're not going to believe this.' At one time, I didn't even know they had such an award."

"This recognition is not just about technical skills; it's also about the dedication and heart that Lamar brings to work every day," said Little. "Whether it's working long hours to fix a critical issue or going above and beyond to support the MTFR team, Lamar's efforts make a profound difference in the work we do. The title of Emergency Vehicle Technician of the Year is a mark of exceptional achievement, and it is with great pride that we recognize him for this well-deserved accolade."

Sauder works full time at MTFR, and his responsibilities include fixing and maintaining 18 emergency vehicles.

Much of what he does revolves around inspections, staying up to date on regulations, keeping records and completing minor to medium-size repairs. But some issues that arise go beyond Sauder's realm of expertise.

"It's a never-ending job," said Sauder. "I work four 10-hour days, and I'm on call 24/7. Sometimes I can work through things over the phone with questions and answers. Sometimes I have to come in. Some of it is stuff you pick up."

Sauder, who's been a volunteer at Willow Street Fire Company for nearly 50 years in addition to working full time at MTFR, has just always been good with his hands.

"My dad was a fire apparatus technician, and when I was 8 or 10 years old, I worked with him," said Sauder. "I saw his work ethic. A broken-down fire truck helps no one, but it affects a lot of people."

For additional information about Manheim Township Fire Rescue, go to http://www.mtfr.net.