This year’s recipient of the Leadership Award has been a formal leader within the department for many years.  He is a public fixture and is known by how he serves the department. 

Webster’s dictionary defines a leader as someone who shows the way, by going in front. This individual has never shied away from a position in front of the men, and the public. He has held numerous officer positions within the department, and within Local #63.  He has served as a public education officer, fire investigator, haz-mat team member, technical-rescue team member, ARFF instructor and Risk Watch coordinator.  He serves as a community volunteer by working with CASA.

In recent years the department has undergone many changes.  It is safe to say that the department will likely undergo more in the coming years.  This individual has never been shy about sharing his thoughts on the impacts of such changes.  However, when the time comes to implement the change, he works to ensure it is done effectively.

I can honestly say that I have a lot of respect for this individual.  All that he does, I feel, is dedicated to making the Quincy Fire Department the best department he can.  While we may not always agree on the pathway to get there, we both share that end goal.

It is my pleasure to announce this year’s Leadership Award recipient, Captain Mark Bigelow.