Brimson Area Volunteer Fire Department Named Minnesota’s Fire Department of the Year

It has been a week full of fire-related stories, but this one brings wel­come heat of a different kind. Instead of smoke or flames, it’s recogni­tion for those who fight them.

The Brimson Area Vol­unteer Fire Department (BAVFD) has been named Fire Department of the Year by the Min­nesota State Fire De­partment Association (MSFDA), a statewide honor recognizing ex­cellence in service, leadership, and commu­nity impact.

Presented at the MSF­DA’s 148th Annual Conference in Breezy Point, the award high­lights the department’s ded­ication during one of the most challenging wildfire seasons in recent memory. BAVFD played a key role in responding to multiple fires which merged this spring.

BAVFD Fire Chief Randy Freyholtz posted, “Thank you to all the members of the Brimson Fire Depart­ment! This honor was earned with your hard work and dedication during the Brimson Complex Fire. You all deserve this recognition! And thank you to all the fire departments and other agen­cies for your ongoing sup­port of the Brimson Com­munity.”

Brimson’s recognition also reflects the deep volunteer spirit that de­fines the community. From wildland fire re­sponses to medical calls and structure protec­tion, the department’s work is rooted in ser­vice.

The MSFDA, a state­wide nonprofit organi­zation that has been serving Minnesota’s firefighters since 1873, represents all fire de­partments and firefight­ers in the state. It advo­cates for their needs through training, educa­tion, legislation, and community support.

The award is a proud moment for Brimson and a testament to the dedi­cation and teamwork that define the community’s vol­unteer fire service.