Nearly 200 members of the Hyattsville Volunteer Fire Department, City of Hyattsville Police Department, local government representatives, friends and invited guests attended the annual Hyattsville Public Safety Awards Banquet.

The annual joint awards program presents awards to both members of the volunteer fire department and city police for accomplishments in the previous year.

Scott Hudson took home the top 'axe' honors as the department's Member of the Year, one of several awards voted on by the membership itself. Scott was an important part of the committee that developed specs for the new ladder truck, is an active fire/ems officer and dedicated member of the organization. The award has been renamed the Donald B. Moltrup Member of the Year Award.

The Chief's Award was presented to Captain Brian Gray for his support and dedication by Chief David Hang, in his first banquet as head of the department's operations following the retirement of Donald Moltrup.

The President's Award went to Christopher Hebert for his hard work growing the department's investment and financial funds.

In other awards voted on by the membership, the Firefighter of the Year went to Nick Bedsaul. The EMS Member of the Year was Firefighter/EMT Allison Rife. Most Improved Member went to Matthew Leonard, and the Rookie of the Year was Brennan Daugherty.

Top overall and live-in responder for 2006 was Brandon Krick, with 585 responses. Matt Leonard (429), Timothy Akers (424), James Butler (397), Allison Rife (378) and Tristan Tricarico (378) rounded out the top live-in responders.

Top non-live-in responder went to President Matt Davy with 386 runs. Danielle Taylor was second with (270), Mitch Kannry (179), Chris Mitchell (132) and Mike Monroe (126) rounded out the top local responders.

Hyattsville Police recognized numerous officers for their actions in 2006.

Thanks to all the members who helped put together this year's event at Martin's Crosswinds and congratulations to all members of the HVFD and City of Hyattsville Police who were award recipients.