Two Enumclaw firefighters and a city police officer were recently honored by members of the local chapter of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

During April 25 and May 9 meetings, Post 1949 honored Capt. John Bloomer of the Enumclaw Fire Department, volunteer firefighter Alex Lind and police officer Kim-Xuan Brewer.

The VFW conducts a national recognition of first responders who have been recommended by their department heads as having provided exceptional service to their community.

Bloomer, a career firefighter, was recognized for enhancing his department’s training program and streamlining learning pathways to get new firefighters ready to serve the community. He also was instrumental in developing a regional fire training academy for volunteer firefighters in King County Zone 3 (Seattle South). He coordinated instructors and helpers to assist with the academy.

Lind serves as resident volunteer firefighter at Station 42 in Cumberland. She has assisted with the Regional Fire Academy and helps with the Full Bellies program and the department’s Santa Run.

As part of her recommendation, it was noted that “She sets the pace for participation amongst our firefighters. Her required training is always complete on time and she is always looking for ways to become a better firefighter/EMT.”

The Post’s Law Enforcement Officer award was given to Brewer, presented by Chief Bob Huebler and Post Commander Tom Krueger.

Brewer has three years of law enforcement experience, the last year and a half with the Enumclaw Police Department. He was recognized for his leadership, mentoring, community contact work and his life-saving efforts. Since joining the force he has received three commendations and the EPD’s Life Saving Award.

Prior to entering law enforcement Brewer spent more than 24 years with the U.S. Air Force, including deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan.