Firefighter Dade was recognized and presented with the Leadership Award at the February 2^nd annual party.

This year’s Leadership Award recipient is no stranger to the spotlight; in fact, one might say he relishes it.  However, when he has the mic, he is typically working hard to educate.  It might be fire safety with the public, it might be members of our own department, and many times it might be some of the many hundreds of firefighters from across the state he has had a personal hand in training.  Whatever the venue, and whomever the audience, he typically has their attention.

This man is passionate about his job.  He spends his life learning and teaching his trade.  He is not one to be complacent about his work and his dedication to always being better is infectious.  Many times he can be seen sharing his knowledge, and his desire to try things differently with those around him.  He has the ability to engage and motivate, a skill that escapes many.

While he does not hold the position of an officer with the department yet, his day is coming.  However, that does not keep him from being a leader on his shift.  Typically, when he speaks, people listen.  There are not many of us in this room that have not had the privilege of a quick conversation that has turned into an hour-long discussion.

While I don’t interact daily with everyone, there are individuals I see regularly.  This firefighter is one of those guys.  I personally respect his drive and motivation, as well as his positive outlook.  He is one of the guys that make coming to work every day rewarding and fun.  It is for all these reasons that I have selected Firefighter Mike Dade as this year’s Leadership Award Recipient.