Kiwanis Club Picks Firefighter of Year

David Barker was named Oxnard firefighter of the year Thursday at the 12th annual Kiwanis Community Service Awards luncheon.

The Kiwanis recognize Oxnard firefighters who have gone beyond the call of duty in their jobs, as well as their involvement in the community.

Barker, 36, was selected because he is involved in every facet of his department, said public information officer Dan Gildea.

He is a firefighter, an emergency medical technician, a hazardous materials specialist, a member of the Oxnard police and fire dive rescue team, a surf rescue specialist, and a rope rescue specialist.

Barker, who has been with the department since 1984, is also involved in training in all those areas.

“It’s very motivating just to be around him,” Gildea said. “He motivates all the rookie firefighters to try to keep up with him in all his endeavors.”

Barker received a plaque for his service.

The Kiwanis also recognized nominees Paul Rodriguez and Dave Moon. Both are engineers with the Fire Department.