Captain Frederic “Fred” Burkhardt IV was selected as the 2024 United Fire Firefighter of the Year for his decisive leadership, ingenuity, and heroism during a life-threatening rescue involving one of his own firefighters, as well as for years of extraordinary service to the Gila Bend community.

Fred’s roots in public service run deep. A fourth-generation firefighter, he followed in the footsteps of his father and grandfather, both volunteer firefighters in Gila Bend. Before joining the fire service, Fred worked for the Union Pacific Railroad, but felt a calling to serve his hometown. He left a well-paying career to join the Gila Bend Fire Department as a volunteer, supporting his family through stipends while committing himself fully to public safety.

Fred began his service with Gila Bend EMS, serving as an EMT for four years before advancing to the Fire Department, where he now holds the rank of Captain. In a small, volunteer-based department with limited staffing, Fred has consistently been the most active responder, answering major incidents day or night, often during his personal time. His tireless work ethic and calm leadership have made him a cornerstone of the department.

His leadership was especially evident during the historic 2021 Gila Bend floods, when a severe monsoon split the town in half and prompted a state of emergency declaration. Fred and his fellow firefighters conducted more than 30 rescues over several days, working relentlessly through extreme conditions while keeping fatalities to a minimum.

Fred’s defining act of heroism occurred on February 23, 2024, during a routine maintenance task inside the Gila Bend fire station. A catastrophic hydraulic failure caused a fire engine cab to collapse, crushing Paramedic Cody Jordan beneath it and pinning him for approximately ten minutes. Off duty at the time, Fred responded immediately to an all-call for help. Upon arrival, he quickly assessed the scene, recognized that hydraulic rescue tools could be adapted for the situation, and coordinated the extrication. His quick thinking and leadership were instrumental in freeing Cody and saving his life. After weeks in the hospital and months of rehabilitation, Jordan was released to full duty.

Beyond the fire station, Fred is deeply invested in his community. He has served for over a decade as the head coach of the Gila Bend High School football and baseball teams, mentoring young athletes and instilling values of discipline, teamwork, and perseverance. He is also a devoted father to his two children and a respected role model throughout Gila Bend.

For his courage, selflessness, and unwavering dedication to his fellow firefighters and community, Captain Fred Burkhardt IV exemplifies firefighter intelligence in action and was rightfully honored as the 2024 United Fire Firefighter of the Year.