4 minute read
Town of Vegreville Appoints Gary Faas New Fire Chief
Michelle Pinon - News Advertiser
Gary Faas, a 25 year veteran of the Vegreville Fire Department has been promoted to the role of Fire Chief.
Faas officially began his duties as Fire chief on Oct. 2 and was presented with his new rank stripes on Oct. 4 at a weekly fire training practice by former Fire Chief and current Town Councillor Jerrold Lemko and Manager of Protective Services Mitch Newton.
Newton remarked, “We are thrilled to announce Gary’s promotion to Fire Chief. With his extensive and dedicated service to our department over the years, we have no doubt that his leadership will bring continued excellence to our team.”
Former Fire Chief and current Town Councillor Jerrold Lemko said, “I first met Gary in 1998 when I became Fire Chief, and he started with the department as a volunteer firefighter. Gary was and still is very dedicated to the fire service and to those within our volunteer fire department.
Gary is one who you could count on in all types of situations, he has a methodical way of processing every circumstance that is reassuring to those operating under his leadership. Gary rose through the ranks within the service to this day where he has become our Fire Chief based on his ability to lead.
Gary not only is a great leader but is a role model, mentor, he also cares deeply about the camaraderie within the fire hall. Gary and I have shared the many trials and tribulations associated with being a volunteer firefighter, from the highs and lows to many endeavors within the community. Those being fundraising for many charities, attending events, parades all in the name of community support.
I have nothing but admiration for Gary, he is a gem, and we are so fortunate to have him as a member of our community and our Fire Chief.”
Faas joined the Vegreville Fire Department in 1996 at the age of 36. Faas said he joined the fire department as, “A great opportunity to help within the community.” He has found it to be a rewarding and exciting opportunity and enjoys being part of a supportive team.
“I enjoy what I do and feel like I can make a positive impact within the department.” That was the reason why he has continued to move up through the ranks, advancing to Lieutenant, then Captain/Safety Officer and Deputy Fire Chief and now Fire Chief.
He noted that, “Being a maintenance contract inspector and dealing with traffic safety ties right in with firefighting.”
There have been many changes in relation to training, personal protective equipment and some of the tools firefighters use since he began with the department 25 years ago. He has many memories and highlights over the years. “I was part of the hose coupling team that went to competitions with other fire fighters around the province. This also helped to strengthen team work and comradery. One memorable day was having nine fires within the County of Minburn and using every neighbouring county mutual aid to keep them under control. Shaving out heads for cancer research.”
As far as upcoming plans in his new role? Faas said, “Continue to use social media which educates the public to better understand and empower them to use their skills in fire prevention. Keep up with recruitment and training to increase the engagement of our members by utilizing our new training facility. Encourage our members to have fun while learning new firefighting skills to build a strong and unified team.”
