Representative Alex Dallman Honors Fire Chief and EMS Director Joel Strahota During Ceremony at the Wisconsin State Capitol
Madison, WI – Yesterday, Representative Alex Dallman (R–Markesan) announced that Joel Strahota, Fire Chief of the Grand River Fire District – Markesan Fire Department and Director of the Southern Green Lake County Ambulance Service, has been named the 2025 First Responder of the Year for the 39th Assembly District. Strahota was honored during a ceremony in the Wisconsin State Assembly Chambers at the State Capitol, surrounded by colleagues and fellow first responders.
“I am incredibly proud to recognize Joel Strahota with the 2025 First Responder of the Year Award,” said Representative Dallman. “Joel’s dedication, leadership, and compassion have made a lasting impact on countless lives. For nearly five decades, Joel has served Green Lake County and the surrounding communities. He has exemplified what it means to put others first, and his service is a shining example of Wisconsin’s tradition of volunteerism and community care.”
Strahota began his fire service in 1976 and joined the ambulance service in 1978, marking nearly 50 years of dedicated public service. Over that time, he has logged thousands of volunteer hours, often leading the ambulance service in active run hours, while ensuring that both the fire department and ambulance service remained financially stable and locally controlled.
Known for his selflessness and commitment, Joel has sacrificed vacations and family time to make sure his community was never without coverage. His leadership and mentorship have inspired many, including his son, a third-generation firefighter, to follow in his footsteps.
The First Responder of the Year Award, established in 2019, recognizes the selfless work of Wisconsin’s firefighters, police officers, EMS personnel, and other first responders who demonstrate heroism, professionalism, and service above self. Strahota was nominated by citizens of the 39th Assembly District and was selected as the 2025 First Responder of the Year.
In addition to honoring first responders from across Wisconsin, the State Assembly passed a resolution recognizing October 14, 2025 as First Responders Appreciation Day in Wisconsin.
A photo of Joel Strahota with Representative Dallman from the First Responders of the Year Award ceremony is attached below.
