Hospers, Iowa (KTIV) — Four months after suffering severe burns in a training exercise, firefighter Phil Zeutenhorst has been welcomed home by first responders lining the streets of Hospers.
Fire trucks gathered along the road Tuesday as first responders turned out for the celebration. Community members took to the streets with signs and American flags.
“Phil’s been a big part of our community for a long time. He’s been a volunteer firefighter for many, many years, a good friend of my husband, who’s the fire chief here in town. So [there is] a lot of love and support for him, and I actually got a little tearful seeing everybody come out. That was great to see all the support,” said Chrissy Overmohle, a Hospers resident.
Community members described Zeutenhorst as a person who takes adversity in stride. They say they are glad to have Zeutenhorst back in town, as he is often one of the first people to show up to help those who need it.
“It feels amazing because I didn’t know how many people loved and supported Phil,” said Elise Overmohle, a Hospers resident.
Zeutenhorst spent the last four months being treated at St. Elizabeth Burn Center in Lincoln, Nebraska, and Madonna Rehabilitation.
KIWA Staff Photo
