(ABC 6 News) – An exceptional member of the Mason City Fire Department recently celebrated a big milestone this year.

Randy Elsbernd marked 20 years of service with MCFD on February 24.

Elsbernd started as the first paramedic to ever join the department’s ranks, and has moved up the ladder over the years, now serving as Assistant Deputy Chief of Training.

Ever since graduating high school in the 80s, Elsbernd has been driven to help others.

“It’s not about me, it’s about just making the department, staff, the community, serving the community better all the time,” said Eslbernd.

There isn’t any one moment in Elsbernd’s career he’s most proud of because every chance to help someone is rewarding.

“Some of them might be more exciting, but other ones, you just get that ‘thank you’ from the patient. Those are all great moments,” said Elsbernd.

It’s his dedication to serving others that has inspired many to follow in his footsteps, including his niece, Emily Carolan, who joined MCFD as a firefighter/paramedic in December 2023.

“He’s a big reason why I’m here in Mason City. He’s been here for 20 years, and he’s had a lot of experience, so it’s really fun to listen to his stories,” said Carolan. “It’s just something unique that we share, cause no one else in our family does this kinda thing.”

In Elsbernd’s 20 years with the department, he’s left an impact on just about everyone. That’s why many call him a leader and a mentor.

“He was someone I looked up to at a very early time in my career and someone that I needed to help push me, and he still continues to push all of us honestly,” said Kate Sainci, a firefighter/paramedic who’s been with MCFD for 12 years. “He’s just a great driving force to make us all better.”

Truly selfless, Elsbernd isn’t one to make things about himself. Instead, he wants to lift up the rest of his team.

“It’s all to make them better and better all the time, which in turn serves the community to make them better in the time of need,” said Elsbernd.

For him, a life saved and a job well done is more than enough.

“I just wanna make sure everybody’s doing good,” said Elsbernd.

Even after two decades with the department, Elsbernd is still up for any challenge thrown his way and Elsbernd always looks to see what more he can do to serve his community.

If you see Elsbernd around town, be sure to thank him for his 20 years of service.