March 30, 2026 – Slinger, WI – For Slinger Fire Department firefighter Jeff Westphal, recognition was never the goal. Showing up, putting in the work, and helping others—that’s always been the mission.
Westphal was caught off guard when he was named the department’s 2025 Firefighter of the Year. “I didn’t know,” he said. “I was surprised.”
The award is given annually to “a distinguished member of the Slinger Fire Department who has given their time, talents and treasures over the past year.”
Westphal, who joined the department in November 2020, said the recognition included a summary of his committee work, certifications, and service before concluding with the announcement of his name.
For Westphal, the honor reflects something deeper than accolades.
“I do what I love,” he said. “Without this award I’d still do whatever I did to get this.”
Westphal believes his consistency and commitment, especially following a major health scare, played a role in the recognition.
In 2024, Westphal suffered a sudden cardiac arrest, an experience that could have sidelined many. Instead, he returned with renewed determination.
“I think the biggest part is that I make every training,” he said. “They see my actions and not my words… is why I think I got it.”
That perseverance for the 58-year-old has not gone unnoticed among newer members of the department.
“I was talking to a few younger ones and they said, ‘Yeah, we look up to you. We respect you,’” Westphal said.
At his core, Westphal said the job is about service in its purest form.
“I just like helping people,” he said. “The people I’m called to help are on probably the worst day of their life… and if I can give a hand to make their day a little better or their life a little better, so be it.”
That sense of service came full circle during his recovery, when the department and community rallied around him.
“The community reached out to me when I was down and out,” he said. “And the fire department—they were there. They were cutting my lawn, they were giving me meals… they were doing everything. They’re family, and I truly believe it.”
Westphal holds multiple certifications, including Firefighter II, driver operator, and inspector. Despite his experience, he shrugs off titles.
“I’m just a firefighter,” he said.
His journey into the fire service began decades ago with a childhood dream, though life delayed that path.
“Ever since school, I’ve always wanted to join the fire service,” he said. “But back when I graduated in ’85, there was a long waiting period… then life happened.”
Years later, after raising his family, an opportunity finally opened the door.
“One of the guys came to work… and I said, ‘Well I don’t live within the city limits,’ and he goes, ‘Oh, we got a six-mile radius,’” Westphal said. “So I filled out the application—and here I am.”
Today, he continues to serve while encouraging others to step forward. The department currently has about 49 members and is working to grow its ranks into the mid-50s, using social media and online applications to recruit.
For Westphal, the reward remains simple.
“It gives me pleasure just being able to help somebody,” he said.
His near-death experience also reshaped his outlook on life.
“Don’t sweat the small stuff,” he said. “You’re not guaranteed tomorrow. So say what you need to say and live your life.”
Though honored, Westphal remains grounded and uninterested in recognition for its own sake.
“I don’t need no notoriety or fame or nothing,” he said. “I just want to do what’s expected of me.”
And that, perhaps, is exactly what makes him stand out.
Congratulations to Firefighter Jeff Westphal on being named 2025 Firefighter of the Year at last night’s banquet.
Jeff has been an active member of the department for the past five years, consistently going above and beyond in his duties. From serving on multiple committees to his role as an MPO, Jeff demonstrates professionalism, commitment, and is an example of service before self.
Well deserved, Jeff—thank you for everything you do!