Adam Keeth, Director of Distribution Engineering presented the First Responder of the Year award to Lieutenant Joshua Dunn of the Marshall Texas Fire Department.

SWEPCO proudly served as the title sponsor for KSLA’s 2nd Annual First Responder of the Year Awards, held on September 18. The event celebrated the bravery and dedication of our region’s first responders, including police officers, firefighters, EMS personnel, and others who serve on the front lines of emergencies.

Representing SWEPCO as keynote speaker was Adam Keeth, Director of Distribution Engineering, who delivered a powerful message about the vital partnership between utility crews and emergency responders.

“This kind of coordination isn't just helpful, it’s lifesaving,” Keeth said. “It reflects our shared commitment to keeping our neighborhoods secure and responding effectively to emergencies together.”

Keeth emphasized the critical partnership between first responders and SWEPCO crews, marked by over 3,400 coordinated responses to emergencies like vehicle accidents and fires—ensuring safety and swift action.

Keeth also had the honor of presenting the evening’s top award: the First Responder of the Year, which went to Lieutenant Joshua Dunn of the Marshall Texas Fire Department. Lt. Dunn was recognized for his extraordinary courage in saving a woman from a burning home, then re-entering the structure under worsening conditions to rescue a missing child. His actions exemplify the selflessness and determination that define our first responders.

SWEPCO’s sponsorship of this event underscores our deep appreciation for the men and women who work alongside our lineworkers during storms, outages, and other emergencies. Together, we help restore safety and power to our communities when it matters most.

Watch the recap: KSLA’s 2nd Annual First Responder of the Year Awards