Heroes Who Serve: 5 First Responders Keeping Ohio Safe

Ohio 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 Ohio 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/Paramedics Nick Tummino & John Tomlinson (Westlake) — On July 4, 2022, Westlake firefighter/paramedics Nick Tummino and John Tomlinson rushed into a burning home to save resident Dan Deagan, who was trapped upstairs in thick smoke and extreme heat. Despite the threat of a flashover and suffering second-degree burns, Tummino and Tomlinson located Deagan by voice and led him to safety, demonstrating incredible courage and quick action under pressure. Their heroism, along with the teamwork of Westlake police and fire crews, earned them Ohio’s highest fire service honor and the Star of Life award in 2023. Deagan credits the responders with saving his life and has since formed a lasting friendship with his rescuers. Read more here.

Firefighter James Delman (Sunset Heights) — Veteran firefighter James Delman was honored with the Ohio Fire Service Distinguished Service Award in 2024 for his lifelong dedication to protecting Belmont County and advancing emergency response systems. Early in his career, Delman helped to establish the county’s 9-1-1 Emergency Communication System, improving coordination and dispatch for first responders. His decades of service, including his tenure as Sunset Heights fire chief until 2017, earned him recognition as a steady leader and innovator in public safety. Colleagues and community members alike praised Delman for his lasting contributions and impact on the region’s fire service. Read more here.

Officer Nick Moreland (Dublin) — Officer Nick Moreland was presented with the Civilian Distinguished Service Award for his lifesaving response to a cardiac arrest call in July of 2024. Arriving before medics, Moreland quickly used his AED to deliver a shock to the patient, who had already received immediate CPR from two bystander nurses. His swift action helped restore a viable heart rhythm before the patient was transported to Dublin Methodist Hospital for advanced care. Moreland’s decisive use of life-saving tools and calm under pressure reflected the high level of preparedness and professionalism that can turn a dire emergency into a survivable event. Read more here.

Firefighters Robert Bloom & Aaron Lopez (Springfield) — Firefighters Robert Bloom and Aaron Lopez of the Springfield Fire Department received the 2024 Fire Service Valor Award for rescuing a child trapped after a natural gas explosion in April 2023. Despite facing intense flames and the risk of structural collapse, the pair entered the damaged apartment building without hesitation. Their selfless actions led to the safe recovery of the child and drew high praise from department leadership for their exceptional courage and dedication in the face of life-threatening danger. Read more here.

Officer Brittany Blackford (Vandalia) — In January, Officer Brittany Blackford of the Vandalia Police Department was recognized as a Hometown Hero for going out of her way to help an elderly resident trapped by snow-covered trash cans at the end of his driveway. After borrowing a shovel from a neighbor, she cleared a path so the man could leave for his appointment and return home safely. Her act of kindness, captured on body camera and later shared on social media, received widespread praise from the community. Though she downplayed the gesture, Blackford’s compassion and willingness to serve reflect the quiet heroism officers show in everyday moments. Read more here.

We’re fortunate in Ohio 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!