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Keota Today
By the People, for the People
Keota Firefighters Reach Major Service Milestones
Two volunteer firefighters honored for decades of dedication to the department.
Published on Mar. 4, 2026
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The Keota Fire Department recently recognized two of its long-serving volunteer firefighters - Mike Detweiler for 50 years of service and Darren Luers for 35 years. Both men were presented with certificates honoring their commitment to the all-volunteer department, which has been in operation since 1884.
Why it matters
The Keota Fire Department relies entirely on volunteers to provide critical emergency services to the community. Recognizing the dedication of long-serving members like Detweiler and Luers helps inspire others to join the department and maintain its vital role in public safety.
The details
Mike Detweiler and Darren Luers were both honored by the Keota Fire Department for reaching major service milestones. Detweiler celebrated 50 years with the department, while Luers marked 35 years. The certificates were presented to them by Bill Halleran on behalf of the Iowa Firefighters Association. The Keota Fire Department has been fully staffed by volunteers since its founding in 1884 and currently has 20 firefighters with over 300 years of combined experience, as well as seven emergency response vehicles.
- Mike Detweiler celebrated his 50th anniversary with the Keota Fire Department.
- Darren Luers celebrated his 35th anniversary with the Keota Fire Department.
The players
Mike Detweiler
A 50-year veteran volunteer firefighter with the Keota Fire Department.
Darren Luers
A 35-year veteran volunteer firefighter with the Keota Fire Department.
Bill Halleran
A representative of the Iowa Firefighters Association who presented the service awards to Detweiler and Luers.
Keota Fire Department
An all-volunteer fire department that has served the Keota, Iowa community since 1884.
The takeaway
The Keota Fire Department's reliance on dedicated volunteers to provide critical emergency services to the community is a testament to the selfless spirit of its members. Honoring long-serving firefighters like Detweiler and Luers helps inspire others to follow in their footsteps and sustain the department's vital role in public safety.


