McKenzie County Farmer - Latest News

M.K. French
Farmer Staff Writer

There are a lot of folks who make McKenzie County proud, and two such individuals are receiving some much-deserved recognition for their service: Deputy SRO Chantel Swigart of Grassy Butte and Fire Chief Rick Schreiber of Arnegard have been named the North Dakota American Legion’s Law Enforcement Officer of the Year and Fire Fighter of the Year, respectively.

Deputy SRO Swigart, nominated by Watford City American Legion Post #29, will receive her award at the Legion Joint Session during the Department Convention in Fargo on June 29th. “Chantel loves her work as an SRO and knows all of her thousands of kids by name and at least one thing about them,” stated Don Herrly, Department Adjutant of the North Dakota American Legion. “She educates, mentors and, most of all, builds a trusting rapport with them. She loves inspiring the next generation while simultaneously ensuring their safety.”

Swigart, a graduate of Sidney High School in Montana, brings a wealth of experience to her role, having worked in the Audit and Investigations Unit for the state of Montana for approximately 15 years. For the past six years, she has served as a Deputy School Resource Officer for the McKenzie County Sheriff’s Office, where she oversees four schools. Beyond her professional duties, Swigart is an avid outdoors enthusiast, enjoying hunting, fishing, and hiking.

Rick Schreiber, also nominated by Watford City American Legion Post #29, will be honored at the Firefighters Association Convention in Minot from June 5th to 7th. Schreiber, who has served as a firefighter for 27 years, became the Chief of the Arnegard Rural Fire Protection District and Board Chair in 2016. “It was the fastest and most aggressive grass fire he had ever fought in his 27 years as a firefighter,” Herrly said, referencing Schreiber’s recent battle against a 700-acre wildfire near Arnegard this past October.

Schreiber’s extensive training includes FF1, FF2, Extraction, Trench Rescue, Low Angle rescue, and certifications as a State Certified EMR and Hazmat Rescuer. His dedication to public service extends beyond the fire department. He also serves as the Arnegard City Council President, Treasurer for the ND Salt Water Recycle Association, and the Arnegard Booster Club.

“Congratulations to Deputy School Resource Officer Swigart for being recognized as a leader within the Law Enforcement family,” Herrly stated. And of Rick Schreiber, “He joined the fire department while in the Guard, and has served the Arnegard community with great dedication.”

Both Swigart and Schreiber exemplify the spirit of service that strengthens the fabric of McKenzie County, and these awards are a well-deserved recognition of their commitment to their communities.

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