Heroes Who Serve: 5 First Responders Keeping Kansas Safe

Kansas 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 Kansas 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!

Officer Ronnie Wagner (Moundridge) — In 2024, Officer Ronnie Wagner of the Moundridge Police Department led a creative rescue mission to save a 14-month-old boy who became trapped inside a 10-foot-deep PVC pipe in Wichita. Calmly, Wagner fashioned a makeshift "catch pole" using a smaller pipe and rope, allowing first responders to carefully lift the toddler, Bentley, to safety. Paramedics confirmed that Bentley was uninjured, and body camera footage captured the delicate operation. The team’s resourcefulness and steady teamwork transformed a dangerous situation into a successful and heartwarming rescue. Read more here.

Corporal Rory Johnson (Parsons) — During a call in April 2023, Corporal Rory Johnson of the Parsons Police Department sprang into action to save a fellow officer who was critically injured. Responding to the distress call, Johnson quickly applied pressure to a severe abdominal wound and assisted with a leg injury until paramedics arrived. His calm, decisive actions under pressure were credited with saving a life and earned him the prestigious Silver Award from the Kansas Association of Chiefs of Police. Read more here.

Officer John Biagini (Wichita) — Officer John Biagini, a 24-year veteran of the Wichita Police Department, was named 2023 Officer of the Year for his outstanding work in the Exploited and Missing Child Unit. Known for his tireless efforts, Biagini helps locate missing children and investigate the circumstances of their disappearance. In addition to his work with runaways, Biagini also created a sensory kit for children with autism, inspired by his three autistic children, and helped implement autism training and resources for officers across multiple agencies. His dedication, both professionally and personally, highlights his deep commitment to making his community safer and more inclusive for all. Read more here.

Firefighter John Wienck (Riley County) — John Wienck of the Riley County Fire District #1 was honored with the prestigious Harold Bellman Award in 2024 for his decades of outstanding service to the Riley County Fire community. A firefighter since 1986, Wienck is known for his positive attitude, leadership in training volunteers, and lifelong dedication to public service. The award, named after a founding member of the department, recognizes individuals who have served with exceptional commitment for over 20 years. Following in his father's footsteps as a second-generation recipient, Wienck’s legacy highlights a family tradition of reliability, hard work, and deep-rooted community involvement. Read more here.

Master Trooper Daniel Delgadillo (Burlington) — In January 2025, Master Trooper Daniel Delgadillo of the Kansas Highway Patrol helped save a Burlington resident trapped inside a burning home. Quick to respond, Delgadillo rushed to the scene, teamed up with a local police officer and firefighter, and entered the smoke-filled house wearing a gas mask to find and assist the trapped occupant. Thanks to the team's swift actions and bravery under dangerous conditions, all residents were safely rescued from the fire. For his heroism, Delgadillo was awarded the Kansas Highway Patrol Life Saving Award. Read more here.

We’re fortunate in Kansas 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!