When Eureka Mayor Kevin Coffey announced Charles Kuhn Jr. as the city's Patriot of the Year at this year's Eureka Days, local firefighters and police officers lined up in the stage behind him in support of a longtime resident who has supported many city initiatives and public safety measures.

Coffey said Kuhn is someone whose opinion is highly regarded, and that he would make "any sacrifice for friend, family and our country."

Kuhn, 71 years old, has been the secretary of the Eureka Fire Protection District board of directors since 2002.

"In fact, I've seen Charles tear up a bit when he talks about his people in the fire district," said Coffey.

Former Mo. Rep. Jack Jackson, R-District 89, presented Kuhn with this distinguished patriotic award.

Kuhn also received the Citizen Service Award from the Eureka Police Department on Dec. 21, 2004. In addition, he has served as a Eureka planning and zoning commissioner.