Tumwater names Andrew Weinstein as firefighter of the year

The Tumwater Fire Department selected firefighter-paramedic Andrew Weinstein as firefighter of the year. 

Weinstein was honored at a Tumwater City Council meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 20, where he received commendations and thankful remarks from his supervisors and the city council. 

Fire Chief Brian Hurley said Weinstein exemplifies the department’s core values of compassion, innovation, trust and empowerment. 

“These values create a framework for fostering autonomy, integrity and effectiveness within individuals and the organization — and Andrew embodies these as a firefighter-paramedic,” Hurley said. 

Battalion Chief James Osberg, who supervised Weinstein for more than two years, also spoke highly of him.

“He's highly motivated. He's a self-starter, and he has the best interest in the fire department as a whole with everything that he does,” Osberg said. 

“Our motto at (Tumwater Fire Department) is ‘It’s the water and a lot more.' It means more than just going on the aid call, more than putting someone's house fire out. It's really about what other things do you bring to the community? How do we leave a family a little better than we found them after we resolved an emergency?

“If my family had an emergency and Andrew responded to my home and took care of my mother, my father or my children, I would be extremely satisfied. I would sleep well knowing that one of our best was in my home providing service to the community.” 

Weinstein was presented with a plaque and a commemorative flag during the ceremony. In a brief statement, he thanked his colleagues and supervisors for the recognition and also acknowledged his family. 

City council members praised Weinstein’s service, noting the rigor of training and critical role firefighters play in protecting the community. 

Mayor Leatta Dahlholff spoke with gratitude and admiration toward the fire department, as it has responded to emergencies at her home multiple times. 

“It does shift your perspective when your life is saved because of the work that you do,” Dahlhoff said. “So just (have) immense gratitude, and I'm humbled that you chose Tumwater and that you continue to choose Tumwater.” 

She expressed hope that the city’s plan to remodel the North End Fire Station reflects how much the city values the department. 

“As we move forward together as a council and as a city, including with the remodel of Station T2, I hope our actions show that you are a priority to Tumwater," Dahlhoff said.