The Flagler-Palm Coast Kiwanis Club has designated Osvaldo ‘Ozzy’ Sene with the honor of being their 2025 Firefighter of the Year. The City of Palm Coast announced the award in a news release on Monday.
According to Palm Coast’s release, Sene has shown himself to be an exemplary firefighter due to ‘his dedication to professional development, community service, and mentorship’. All this praise comes just two years into Sene’s tenure with the Palm Coast Fire Department.
“Ozzy exemplifies what it means to be a Palm Coast firefighter—committed, compassionate, and community-minded,” said Palm Coast Fire Chief Kyle Berryhill of his coworker. “His leadership in mentoring young people and his willingness to go above and beyond for his fellow firefighters truly embody the spirit of service that defines our department.”
Sene has completed the PCFD’s paramedic program, the driver/engineer training series, and multiple specialized rescue certifications. Had it just been these achievements, Sene might be a standout. But his selection as firefighter of the year took into account his work to help the next generation.
Beyond his regular duties as a firefighter, Sene has also volunteered time to work on advancing the PCFD Junior Firefighter Program. Through this program local youth are given the chance to access mentorship and get their first taste of being a firefighter. Sene led the Junior Firefighter team to the Florida Cadet Games for the first time in the program’s history, in which they earned two trophies.
Additionally, the Palm Coast government’s release says that Sene is known for making himself available to put in extra work when necessary. He’s said to open up his schedule to accommodate community events and emergencies, and show a positive attitude that’s become infectious to the staff.
Chris Gollon is a Flagler County resident since 2004, as well as a staple of the local independent music scene and avid observer of Central Florida politics, arts, and recreation.
