Peggy Horn named county ‘Firefighter of Year’

A third-generation firefighter was honored as “Firefighter of the Year” by the Carroll County Firefighters Association (CCFA) recently.

Peggy Horn of Perrysville was presented the award at Perry Twp. Fire Department after they held a Drive-Thru Chicken BBQ fundraiser Sept. 20. They had 100 dinners available. They sold out within 45 minutes.

The CCFA planned to present the award to Horn during their annual dinner in April, but due to the coronavirus pandemic, the dinner was cancelled.

“We didn’t receive any nominations from the departments so we brainstormed for about two seconds on who really, truly deserves this award for all you’ve done for the association and your department,” CCFA President Willis Cline said.

Horn joined the Perry Twp. Fire Dept. in 2001. She has served in many capacities within the department over the years, including chief for five years. She became the first female in the county to serve as chief. She is the third member of her family to serve as chief, following in the footsteps of her grandfather, Keith Henry, and her father, Mike Trushel.

Perry Twp. Chief Eric Horn noted Peggy has been a driving force in keeping the department running since she has been a member.

Henry was a charter member of the department. He was instrumental in building the first portion of the fire station; Trushel was involved with the first addition; and Horn assisted with the third addition.

When asked what this award meant to her, Peggy smiled and quietly said, “I am glad to help the community.”

She graciously accepted  congratulations from her peers, however, a hug from her mother, Marcia Trushel, brought out tears.

Peggy is the treasurer of Perry Twp. FD and newly-elected treasurer for the association. Horn is a first responder and member of Scio and Jewett fire departments.

She is employed as the fiscal officer for the Harrison County Sheriff Department.

She and husband, Eric, reside outside of Perrysville.