Madison, WI – Today, Representative Rick Gundrum (R-Slinger) honored West Bend Assistant Fire Chief, Chuck Beistle, with the First Responder of the Year Award. Every session, all members of the Assembly may honor a first responder in their district who is deserving of the award. Representative Gundrum received nominations from the public across the 58th Assembly District prior to selecting a nominee. He released the following statement:
“I selected Chuck Beistle for the First Responder of the Year Award because he has dedicated more than three decades of service to the West Bend community and surrounding areas. Throughout his career, he has exemplified the absolute best service through his leadership skills, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to serving others. Chuck has risen through every rank of the West Bend Fire Department, including firefighter, motor pump operator, lieutenant, battalion chief, assistant chief, and even recently, serving a term as Interim Chief in 2023. Beyond his service to the fire department, Chuck has also served as President of both the Washington County Dive Rescue Team and the Washington County Training Officers Association. He’s also a board member for Leadership West Bend and an active leader at Holy Angels Catholic Church and School. We are truly blessed to have Chuck in West Bend and he was certainly deserving of the 2025 First Responder of the Year Award.”
Chuck Beistle was honored with many other first responders across Wisconsin during today’s floor session. In addition to being honored on the floor, he also received a citation from Representative Gundrum and Senator Dan Feyen.