Madison- Yesterday, State Representative Jim Piwowarczyk presented Officer Deputy Anthony
Rauch of the Washington County Sheriff’s Department with the 2025 First Responder of the
Year Award for the 98 th Assembly District.
On June 26 th , 2025 at approximately 1:51 PM, multiple 911 calls reported a vehicle driving
erratically northbound on I-41 near Sherman Rd, swerving into ditches and endangering other
drivers. Deputy Anthony Rauch responded and located the crashed vehicle about 10–15 yards
into the woods off Hwy 144, after being flagged down by a citizen.
The vehicle was heavily damaged, smoking, and had a full airbag deployment. Inside, the driver
was unresponsive. Recognizing the fire risk, Deputy Rauch broke the window, entered the
vehicle, and pulled the 185-pound driver to safety. After detecting a faint pulse, he moved the
individual further away as flames emerged from the car.
“I extend my gratitude to Deputy Anthony Rauch for his exemplary service and courageous
actions during a life-threatening incident,” said Rep. Piwowarczyk.” His conduct reflects the
highest ideals of public service and brings great credit to the Washington County Sheriff’s
Department. We are fortunate to have such dedicated professionals protecting our community.”
The “First Responder of the Year” award, created in 2019, recognizes the brave men and women
who serve in our emergency services. Nominations are submitted by community members from
across the state, and each state representative selects one individual from their Assembly district
who best exemplifies community service, selflessness, and dedication. Recipients include police
officers, sheriff’s deputies, firefighters, and EMS personnel.
The State Assembly also passed Assembly Joint Resolution (AJR) 99, declaring October 14 th ,
2025 as First Responders Appreciation Day in Wisconsin.
