The Franklin Township Fire Department held its annual award banquet, recognizing volunteers who protect the 15 square miles and 5,600 residents of the township.

Honored were Fire Chief Kevin Lilly and Assistant Fire Chief Lynn Diehl, who were presented clock plaques. They praised the 26 men and women who they said "made their job easy."Others honored were Bruce Wolfe, captain; Justin Smith, Todd Hawk and Eric Lilly, lieutenants; and Mark Goodhile, engineer.The Franklin QRS team and Franklin fire police were also acknowledged for their dedicated responses in the township. Bob Mertz serves as captain of the QRS organization.