Eden Prairie Assistant Fire Chiefs Justin Johnson and Matt Worthington, and Firefighters Josh Privette and Michael Do with MN U.S. Attorney Daniel N. Rosen and Fire Chief Scott Gerber after being presented with the Hometown Hero Award.

Four Eden Prairie firefighters were honored today with the Freedom 250 Hometown Hero Award for the State of Minnesota for their heroic actions that saved the life of a child in May 2024.

The award was presented by U.S. Attorney Daniel N. Rosen during a ceremony attended by first responders at Eden Prairie Fire Station 1. The firefighters recognized were Assistant Fire Chiefs Justin Johnson and Matt Worthington, and Firefighters Josh Privette and Michael Do.

The recognition stems from their response to a residential fire where a child was trapped inside the burning home. The crew entered the structure, located the child and brought the child to safety. Their decisive actions under dangerous conditions helped save the child’s life.

“This recognition is a powerful reminder of the courage, training and commitment our firefighters bring to every call,” said Fire Chief Scott Gerber. “Assistant Chiefs Johnson and Worthington, and Firefighters Privette and Do acted with extraordinary bravery when a child’s life depended on them. We are incredibly proud of their service to our community.”

The Freedom 250 Hometown Hero Award recognizes individuals whose courage, public service and commitment to their communities reflect the ideals being celebrated as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary.

“Firefighters do not seek recognition, but moments like this matter,” said Chief Gerber. “These four public servants represent the very best of the Eden Prairie Fire Department and the values of service, sacrifice and teamwork we witness from each of our firefighters daily.”