Flanked by his Fire Dept. teammates, his wife Alyssa, their still like-new daughter, his mother and her fiance, Mr. Poelstra blushed, tastefully, as the commendation was recited.
Reading from the oversized certificate, City Councilperson Carol Gross recalled the outlines of the story.
They Were a Team
With the cooperation of his Fire Dept. partner, Rob Kohlhepp, Ms. Gross told the audience how Mr. Poelstra saved a life on the morning of March 20.
Batt. Chief Rich Gallagher helpfully provided further details.
The fire call sounded at 10 in the morning the blaze was in the 5800 block of Doverwood Drive.
An Improv Moment
As paramedics, Mr. Poelstra, an 11-year veteran, and Mr. Kohlhepp, a six-year veteran, were the first on the scene this time. They travel without a ladder and other standard fire equipment.
Immediately, they learned a young person, Sara Lebolt, was trapped on the second floor.
This called for improvisation.
Dashing into view, Mr. Poelstra climbed a wall while Ms. Lebolt frantically fought her way out of the window.
Riding His Shoulders
Gradually, the near-victim was close enough to straddle Mr. Poelstras shoulders, and together they reached ground safety.
Ms. Lebolts mother came to the City Council commendation to personally thank Mr. Poelstra for rescuing her daughter and for preserving her property on Doverwood.
Daughterly Approval
Throughout the ceremony, Mr. Poelstras infant daughter, reclining happily in her mothers arms, applauded vigorously, making the feelings unanimous.
That certified her fathers stature as a hero.
