October 21, 2009 > Firefighters of the year honored Firefighters of the year honored Submitted By Marla Blowers Photos By courtesy of Marla Blowers Firefighters Jason Cartee from Union City, Ernie Morua from Newark and Mark Hogan from, Fremont were honored by the Newark Optimist Club as the 2009 Firefighters of the Year. Union City Fire Chief Carlos Rodriguez spoke in glowing terms about Engineer EMS Jason Cartee, their honoree. Jason is a shift Director who is a strong leader, as a real team player. Chief Rodriguez said that Jason exemplifies the tenets of the Optimist Creed in his ability to direct positive labor management relations within the department. Newark City Manager John Becker, once a firefighter hopeful, praised Newark's honoree Ernie Morua for his great attitude and for the ways in which he shows initiative in reaching out to community members in need. Ernie serves as a mentor, he is a CERT instructor, and excels in all areas of his job. Ernie started as a Firefighter Apprentice in 1986 and joined the NFD in 1987. He is a HAZMAT Specialist and became a Captain in 2006. Fire Chief Demetrious Shaffer said Ernie, as a Newark resident, is very involved in the community. Deputy Fire Chief Geoff La Tendresse sang the praises of Fremont's honoree Firefighter Paramedic Mark Hogan. Mark worked as a mechanic for 15 years before becoming a firefighter. These skills have been appreciated by his department in countless ways and earned him the nickname of "Gadget."Mark has earned 5 service commendations, is a Fire Academy instructor and is qualified for water rescues. Mark lives in Oakdale and is active in his community and church.