Heroes Who Serve: 5 First Responders Keeping Idaho Safe

Idaho is home to dedicated first responders who go above and beyond to keep their communities safe. That’s why Patch and T-Mobile have teamed up to spotlight EMTs, firefighters and police officers who are making a difference every day.

Check out five outstanding Idaho first responders who are making an impact. And if you know a hero who deserves recognition, we want to hear about them! Click here to nominate a first responder for a chance to be featured in our Heroes Who Serve series on Patch!

Firefighter William “Wild Bill” Yensen (Caldwell) — This April, 91-year-old William "Wild Bill" Yensen was honored with the Black Mountain Award by the Wildland Firefighter Foundation for his extraordinary career as a smokejumper, completing an impressive 333 missions over three decades. Yensen, who began smokejumping in 1953, continued well past the typical retirement age, driven by his passion and physical endurance. Known for parachuting into remote areas to combat wildfires, Yensen's lifelong dedication helped protect wilderness areas across nearly every western state. The emotional ceremony celebrated not just Yensen’s incredible service but also the often-overlooked bravery of wildland firefighters. Read more here.

Corporal Travis Gurney (American Falls) — In January 2024, Corporal Travis Gurney of the Idaho State Police risked his life to prevent a catastrophic wrong-way collision on Interstate 86 near American Falls. During a high-speed pursuit, Gurney strategically struck the suspect’s vehicle head-on with his patrol car to bring the dangerous chase to an end. He then assisted in safely apprehending the suspect. Gurney’s courageous actions earned him recognition as a finalist for the 2024 IACP/Motorola Solutions Trooper of the Year Award, which honors troopers who exemplify bravery, leadership and professionalism in the line of duty. Read more here.

Officer Mitch Bierma (Idaho Falls) — In December 2023, Officer Mitch Bierma of the Idaho Falls Police Department displayed extraordinary bravery when responding to a dangerous incident in a hotel parking lot. As an Idaho State Police trooper was fired upon by a suspect, Bierma arrived on the scene and was immediately targeted by the gunman. Under extreme pressure, Bierma bravely chased the armed suspect while being shot at, ultimately helping bring the situation to an end. For his quick actions and courage under fire, Officer Bierma was awarded the Valor Award by the Greater Idaho Falls Police Foundation. Read more here.

Officer Eli Kistemann (Idaho Falls) — This March, Officer Eli Kistemann of the Idaho Falls Police Department was honored as the department’s MVP by the Greater Idaho Falls Police Foundation. Working the night shift, Kistemann has demonstrated exceptional dedication to proactive policing, leading to 24 arrests in the month of June alone. His efforts have significantly reduced drug activity and removed criminal elements from the community, earning praise from supervisors and community leaders. Kistemann’s commitment to protecting Idaho Falls was celebrated at an awards ceremony alongside fellow law enforcement heroes. Read more here.

Sheriff’s Deputy Stan Denham (Grangeville) — Idaho County Sheriff’s Deputy Stan Denham was honored with the 2023 Veterans of Foreign Wars National Law Enforcement Award for his record of highly professional and exemplary service to the community and the nation. Denham’s expertise was critical in locating a suspect and child during a noncustodial parental abduction case in Idaho’s remote backcountry, where he successfully tracked them through subtle signs like broken branches and flattened grass. Known for his dedication to search and rescue, Denham’s ability to find and assist those lost in the wilderness has made him an invaluable member of the department. His humility, skill and commitment to service were celebrated during a ceremony hosted by the VFW, with support from his colleagues, family and community. Read more here.

We’re fortunate in Idaho to have first responders like these working tirelessly to keep us safe. If you know a local hero who deserves recognition, we want to hear about them! Click here to nominate them to be featured on Patch!