NEWS RELEASE – Lamont County Inaugural Firefighter Awards
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – Lamont County Inaugural Firefighter Awards
March 19, 2023 – LAMONT, AB: Lamont County Emergency Services hosted its first regional gala on March 11 to recognize staff and volunteers for their valued efforts. Greetings were provided by Lamont County’s Regional Fire Chief, Reeve David Diduck and CAO Peter Tarnawsky – recognizing the continued efforts and commitment the emergency services team provides and protects across the region. It was also the first time that awards were presented in five categories.
“Working together as Lamont County volunteer firefighters and staff, means we have a strong coordinated response to events occurring across the County.” says Lamont County Reeve David Diduck. “It helps ensure that we have an effective response and safe communities.”
Included in the recognition was the Robert A. Mitchell Dedication Award, which recognizes an employee/volunteer for their dedication and service above and beyond. Bob Mitchell is the longest serving firefighter in Canada and the award is named in his honour.
Lamont County congratulates Emergency Services award recipients:
- Firefighter of the Year: Nick Mercer.
- Recruit Firefighter of the Year: Amber Thiessen.
- Leadership Excellence: Scott Calder.
- Officer of the Year: Correen Hosack.
- Robert A. Mitchell Dedication Award: Dan Bowman.
Also recognized at the gala was Regional Chief Milliken, who has served Lamont County in various roles across the past 15 years—he is departing for a new role with Alberta Health Services, and we wish him the best!
“I am filled with pride and gratitude for the hard work and dedication for everyone that serves our community,” said Chief Milliken. “Some of the recent successes included the pilot a ‘Peak Season Staffing Model’ sees the first full-time crew in place throughout the busiest time of year; and transition towards one fire department that serves the whole county (including new patch design and organizational updates).
“One of the greatest successes of our department over the past three years has been everyone’s ability to adapt and innovate in the face of new challenges and demands. We recognize firefighters and officers for their unwavering commitment to our community, and the backbone of Emergency Services in Lamont County.”
[ENCLOSURE: Photos from the gala (award recipients).]
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Media inquiries can be directed to:
Jay Zaal
Communications Coordinator
780-895-2233 Ext. 222
jay.z@lamontcounty.ca
www.lamontcounty.ca/news
Photos:
- Lamont County Regional Chief Shayne Milliken addresses staff and volunteers at the inaugural Firefighters Gala on March 11.
- Regional Chief Milliken and District Captain Bob Calder pose with a gift provided to the departing Regional Chief that included coffee and a Lamont County Emergency Service branded trash can (coffee to help stay awake as his family cares for their recent newborn).
- Presentation of the inaugural Robert A Mitchell Dedication Award to Dan Bowman (R). Bob Mitchell, Regional Chief Milliken (R) and District Captain Scott Calder (L) helped present this award recognizing dedication.
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