Lincoln Fire and Rescue’s firefighter of the year honored for his dedication to the job

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — Lincoln firefighter Dave Backhus was recognized Friday as the 2025 Firefighter of the Year.

Arriving close to 6 a.m. as he usually does, Backhus wasn’t sure what to make of who was standing behind the rig he drives daily.

Family, friends and colleagues stood witness to the Battalion Chief presenting Backhus the prestigious award.

Colleagues describe Backhus as a humble man, which was apparent in speaking with him about this honor.

“It’s an awesome feeling,” Backhus said. “I can probably think of a lot of other individuals who are just as qualified, if not better, to have this award, but it does make you feel good, having an award like this.”

Backhus earned this title for many reasons. He was one of the first members to participate in Lincoln’s Honor Guard, working off duty to volunteer at funerals for those who lost their life in service.

He also gives national presentations to help firefighters struggling with post-traumatic stress and mental health issues.

Nominated for the award by his captain and crew, he is well respected as someone they can learn from and laugh with. He is also known for telling the occasional dad-joke.

Backhaus says the feeling is mutual.

“I think it’s a family atmosphere, we’re with these people a third of our life in the year, we’re here for twenty-four hours at a time,” he said. “Working with a great crew that I have makes the day go by quickly and always anxious to come back to work the next day.”