Veterans of Foreign Wars Chapter 2015 of Lakeport held a potluck dinner followed by an awards ceremony on the evening of Sept. 14 at the Lakeport Senior Center.
Awards went to Bob Ray, Lakeport Fire Protection District captain and paramedic, for emergency medical technician (EMT) of the year; firefighter of the year to firefighter/paramedic Danny Copas; and police officer of the year to Norm Taylor of Lakeport Police.
Lakeport Fire Chief Ken Wells nominated Ray and Copas for their dedication and contributions to Lake County emergency services, while Police Chief Kevin Burke nominated Taylor, his department's most senior officer, for his efforts.
Ray, a 37-year veteran of the Lakeport Fire Protection District, was recognized for his volunteer and paid service to the progression of emergency medical services in Lake County, according to Lakeport Fire officials.
He has been instrumental in emergency medical services training for the department, serving on many medical committees and functioning as liaison officer with Sutter Lakeside Hospital and North Coast EMS.
Ray became an EMT in 1974, gaining valuable experience before upgrading to paramedic in 1992. A Clear Lake High School graduate, Ray has spent his entire life in Lake County, Lakeport Fire reported. He has five children and three grandchildren.
Copas was recognized for his overwhelming support of the fire service for both Clearlake Oaks Fire Department and Lakeport Fire Protection District.
Since starting a career in the fire service 24 years ago, Copas has been an innovator to the Lake County fire service. He coordinated the development of Clearlake Oaks ambulance services in 1993, served as a fire training officer for volunteers and new recruits, and assists local law enforcement with the “Every 15 minutes” program, according to Lakeport Fire.
Copas is an active member with the Lake County Arson Task Force and is a state-certified fire officer and firefighter II. He has been married for 19 years and has six children.
Taylor has been with Lakeport Police since 1992 and currently serves as president of the Lakeport Police Officers Association.
He grew up in San Jose, where at age 17 he decided to go into law enforcement.
Taylor said he was encouraged by his uncle, who worked in law enforcement following a military career.
“After hearing his stories I focused more on the career of law enforcement and ended up getting there,” Taylor said.
After Taylor completed studies at West Valley Junior College, he moved to Lake County while he was attending the police academy, and has been here ever since. Taylor is married with two sons.
Ray, Copas and Taylor received plaques, certificates of appreciation and $75.
The Veterans of Foreign Wars Chapter 2015 will submit their names at the state level where they will be reviewed and sent to the national level for consideration of further honors.
E-mail Elizabeth Larson at
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