By meadowlakeNOW

MLFD deputy chief awarded Sask. Protective Services Medal

Sep 20, 2017 | 5:48 PM

Meadow Lake Fire Department’s deputy fire chief Joe Grela originally became a volunteer firefighter in January 1992 as a way of being involved in the community. More than 25 years later, it has turned into a lifelong passion, and he was recognized for just that yesterday, receiving the Saskatchewan Protective Services Medal.

Grela was one of 72 people province-wide to receive the honour. He attended a ceremony in at the Saskatoon Police Service headquarters, where the Lieutenant Governor of Saskatchewan, Vaughn Solomon Schofield, along with Provincial Secretary Nadine Wilson, presented him with a medal.

He said it was humbling to receive the award, and is grateful for the last 25 years.

“It feels nice to be recognized,” he said. “It’s really something I’ve enjoyed, it’s a nice feeling to help people when they’re in need. I’ve enjoyed the camaraderie that you develop with your fellow firefighters and the community.”

In his tenure with the department, he took specialized training, and received professional designations.

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He got the opportunity to take professional qualifications as a firefighter, is a fire inspector and investigator, a fire service instructor, and first responder. He’s also a driving instructor for the Saskatchewan Emergency Vehicle operators’ course through the provincial fire commissioner’s office and sits as a director on the board of the Saskatchewan Association of Fire Chiefs.

According to the provincial government, the medal honours individuals with 25 years or more of exemplary service protecting Saskatchewan people or their property either in a volunteer or full-time capacity. Fire Chief Neil Marsh put forward an application to the awards committee.

“I share this with my family for sure, a lot of it involved them as well,” Grela said. “Lots of times I couldn’t go to functions or missed meals because I’ve been at a call or on call.”

kathy.gallant@jpbg.ca  

On Twitter @ReporterKath