St. Johns County Fire Rescue names Firefighter, Paramedic and Employee of the Year

St. Johns County Fire Rescue has named the Firefighter, Paramedic and Department Employee of the year for 2014.

Jason Baer, Luke Nehemias and Amy Land were selected based on nominations by their peers. The final decision was made by an awards committee. The three will be formally recognized at an awards ceremony today.

Firefighter

In the six years Baer has been with St. Johns County Fire Rescue, he has risen to the titles of Fire Officer I and II, and became a Marine Rescue technician, among other achievements.

He also is pursuing a degree from Flagler College, where he is on track to graduate in the fall. Those who work with Baer say he is motivated and always is looking for ways to improve his skills.

Paramedic

When Nehemias is off duty, he can be found volunteering his time with Pink Heals and Firefighters for Families. He also has used his design talents to develop the logos of many different organizations within the department.

Nehemias is known for his ability to stay calm and focused under pressure. His co-workers say he always remains compassionate and caring of the patients at the scene.

Employee

Land is the first person people are directed to when they have business with St. Johns County Fire Rescue.

She also has become an administrator for the Marine Rescue Division, and takes the role to make sure that the department's grant regulations are met.

Most recently, Land assisted in the documentation, submission and reimbursement procedures required for the State's Hazardous Materials Response and Urban Search and Rescue Program. As the result of her efforts, the department has received 100 percent of the claims submitted for a total of $295,000.