During its "Firefighter Friday" program, Alton Fire & Rescue honored Firefighter/AEMT Christopher Panek.

Panek, who has been with the department for almost a year, stated that he joined the fire service to be a part of something greater than himself and to make a significant contribution to the community. He explained that he was lured to the department because of the variety of calls in Alton, such as water mishaps, mountain rescues, and EMS services.

According to officials, Panek was once employed as a rope access technician climbing cell phone towers. He likes to work out, practice jiu jitsu, go camping and hiking, and spend time with his family and dogs.