Isakson awarded for fire service

Roy Isakson of Gulf Breeze has quietly served his community for more than 30 years while expecting little in return.

Last month his lifetime of voluntary service with Midway Fire Department was recognized when he was awarded Fire Inspector of the Year by the Florida Fire Marshals and Inspectors Association. Not only is his name now included with inspectors from large fire departments all over Florida, but Isakson, 76, is the only volunteer fire inspector in the state.

Roy's daughter Shellie Isakson, who also is a Midway fire commissioner, said serving the community was something that just came natural to her father.

"Fire inspector is not a volunteer position. It's typically a well-paid position, but the funding is not available and without him the district would suffer," Shellie said about her dad.

For more on this story, see the Dec. 1 issue of the Navarre Press or subscribe online.