Responder Of The Week Clayton Noriega

For Ulysses native Clayton Noriega, serving the community isn’t just a duty—it’s a calling rooted in both purpose and pride.

Noriega, who has lived in Ulysses his entire life, currently serves as a firefighter with a combined 10 years on the department, including service from 2007 to 2010 and again from 2019 to the present. In 2024, he stepped into the role of engineer, taking on the responsibility of managing fire apparatus and ensuring that every piece of equipment is inspected, maintained, and ready when it matters most.

His training reflects that commitment. Noriega has completed Firefighter 1 training, which establishes the core foundations of firefighting, along with certifications in hazardous materials awareness and operations, driver and pump operations, and aerial ladder functions. Each step has prepared him for the unpredictable nature of emergency response.

But for Noriega, the motivation goes beyond training and titles.

“I got into firefighting for the idea that every person in our community deserves to have a sense of reassurance from our first responders,” he said. “I wanted to be a part of that.”

Over time, that purpose has grown into something even deeper.

“The feeling of brotherhood has kept me going,” Noriega added. “It’s like having a second family.”

Outside of the fire department, Noriega works as a compressor mechanic for Eiger Operating, where he has been employed for the past two years. His days don’t slow down much after work, either. When he’s not on the job, he’s spending time with his wife and two sons, ages 14 and 3, working on cars for extended family, tinkering with motorcycles, or participating in church groups.

Whether it’s on a call, in the shop, or at home, Noriega’s life reflects a steady balance of service, skill, and family.

And in a community like Ulysses, that kind of dedication doesn’t go unnoticed.

Because at the end of the day, responders like Clayton Noriega don’t just answer the call—they help ensure that every member of the community knows someone will be there when it matters most..

As we have a limited number of first responders, it will not be unusual for one to be nominated more than one time. Send your medical or law enforcement nominations for Responder of the Week to news2@ulyssesnews.com or call (620) 356-1201.