Mayor recognizes public safety contributors

NEBRASKA CITY – Nebraska City Public Safety Commissioner Bryan Bequette congratulated firefighter Steve Recker on his retirement and officer Colton Bohac on his promotion to police sergeant at Monday's city council meeting. He also proclaimed natural gas utility workers day and national library week.

Sgt. Bohac joined the police department in 2020. He has contributed as firearms instructor and training coordinator.

Sgt. Bohac introduced his family and his dad Jason, a Lincoln police officer, pinned on his badge.

Mayor Bequette said Recker has been a steady contributor to Nebraska City Fire and Rescue for 36 years.

Bequette: “The biggest thing is sitting there and knowing how blessed we are to have the department that we have. Other communities are really struggling to find the folks that can fill the positions, getting the volunteers to volunteers and putting the equipment under them.”

The mayor described Recker as a reliable firefighter and mentor who went above and beyond his title of apparatus engineer. He said Recker protected the community with professionalism and courage.

Recker moved to the state in 1971 when his father retired from the Air Force.  He moved to Nebraska City in 1982 and worked as a parts specialist for the Chevrolet garage.  He joined Landis Engine in 1994.

He was elected treasurer of the Nebraska City Volunteer Fire Department in 1986.

A reception is scheduled April 3 at the Nebraska City Museum of Firefighting. Recker said he plans to continue as a volunteer.

The mayor also proclaimed March 18 as natural gas utility workers day and library week April 19-25.