Whistler recognized some of its firefighters for their service at last week's council meeting.
The Whistler Fire Rescue Service (WFRS) awards are an annual tradition that recognizes service members for their years of dedication to the safety of Whistler residents and the WFRS.
On July 5, regimental awards were given to five new service members: Martin Schrama, Gavin Sands, Michael Kennedy, Tom Conway and Dane Cozens.
Awards for long service—recognizing 20 years—were presented to Darcy Sibbald, Kim Vertefeuille, Bob Van Engelsdorp, Jeff Drenka, and Dennis Van Dongen.
The 25-year service medals were awarded to Al McConnachie, David Evans Dan Kauffman, Marc Kuiper, and Mitch Hunter. Stephen Doyle received the final award for 30 years of service.
The awards wrapped up with the gifting of a First Nations art piece to Whistler Fire Chief John McKearney for his service to Whistler.
These are the last awards for McKearney, who is passing the reins to new fire chief Thomas Doherty later this year after decades in the fire service.
“I remember when we were told at council that we've hired the retired fire chief from the City of Vancouver, I thought that's a bit of overkill. We don't need someone with that level of experience,” said Mayor Jack Crompton.
“You came into the job with an incredible amount of professionalism. You’ve been a leader in your field and in our community."
McKearney joined the WFRS as fire chief in 2018 after serving eight years with the City of Vancouver. McKearney had an extensive career in the fire service in Vancouver and Whistler, including being elected president of the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs during his tenure with the RMOW.
McKearney leaves his role after advancing multiple updates to Whistler's fire bylaw, developing a new community wildfire resiliency plan, and assisting with the COVID-19 Emergency Operations Centre.
“Chief McKearney, you have been an asset to our organization. It really truly has been a joy to work with you. You will be missed, and we congratulate you on your successful career,” said Crompton.
“I want to say that as someone who was new to the job of mayor and was learning a lot of things on the job, it sure was nice to be working with someone with the depth of your experience. You lead very much in partnership with people."
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