Doctor earns medal

SANDUSKY — Dr. Matt Widmer of Firelands Health received the Meritorious Service Medal for his medical and military service overseas. A presentation with friends, family, colleagues and other supporters occurred Friday at Firelands Regional Medical Center in Sandusky. The award recognizes meritorious service on the basis of extraordinary achievements on a tour of duty. It is the third-highest award granted by U.S. Army Commanders. Essentially, it places a spotlight on soldiers who go beyond expectations when deployed. Additionally, he previously received the combat Field Medical Badge for his exceptional treatment of combat casualties while deployed. Widmer has served in the Ohio National Guard for almost 10 years. He has deployed to Syria, Kuwait and Jordan with his most recent deployment being in Syria where he served as the battalion surgeon. Widmer works as a family practice physician for Firelands, specializing in sports medicine. He's married to his high school sweetheart, Jennifer Widmer, and they have six children together.