The Castlegar and Ootischenia Fire Departments recently recognized their members for their achievements in 2021.
Castlegar awards:
Captain Brad Makortoff was recognized for 29 years of service to CFD. He was also awarded a 35 year Service Bar from the Canadian Volunteer Firefighters Association and nominated to receive his 35 year British Columbia Fire Department Long Service Bar to be mounted onto his BC medal. This award is from the British Columbia Office of the Fire Commissioner. Makortoff also served six years with Robson Volunteer FD. IN addition, Makortoff received his retirement gift for service to CFD.
Safety Officer Ike Braga was recognized for 30 years of service to the CFD. He also received his 30 year service bar from the Canadian Volunteer Firefighters Association and is nominated to receive his Canadian 30 year Exemplary Service Bar. This award is issued by the Governor General of Canada and will be mounted to his Exemplary Services Medal.
Lieutenant Jarred Croteau was recognized for five years service to CFD.
Firefighters Allie Chown, Carling Chown, Matt Howell, Jason Twizell and Nick Pieszak all received their National Fire Protection Association Professional Pro-Board Qualifications Levels 1 & 2.
Ootischenia awards:
Chief Len Coates was recognized for 25 years of service, starting in 1996 with Mackenzie Fire and chief of Mackenzie Pulp, then 2002 with acting chief of Celgar Pulp and moving into a position as full-time captain at the fire hall there before joining the Ootischenia Fire Department (OFD) 8 years ago.
Captian Teresa Cymbal was recognized for 20 years of emergency service, starting with Robson Fire in 2001, working with Castlegar and Nelson SAR and then OFD.
Firefighter Mike Engel was recognized for 10 years of service to OFD.
Captain Noah Foster was named OFD Firefighter of the Year for going over and above his training officer duties.
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