Mesquite, TX – February 3, 2021 – The Mesquite Fire Department (MFD) honored over 70 employees at the Feb. 1 City Council Meeting. During a prerecorded ceremony, MFD presented the 2021 Meritorious Awards to firefighters for their professional achievements and service to the Mesquite community. Watch the award presentation below.
Fire Chief Russell Wilson said, “These employees go above and beyond. They have provided superior public service to Mesquite citizens. I am honored to serve with people of this caliber”.”
This year, Captain/ Paramedic Chad Rose received the 2021 Officer of the Year Award. Captain Rose started his career with the Mesquite Fire Department in 1994 and he received his paramedic certification in 1996. He was promoted to Driver- Engineer in 1999 and to Lieutenant in 2005. In 2009, he was promoted to Captain and served as the Department’s Public Information Officer. The Officer of the Year Award is given to an outstanding officer for demonstrating commitment in a leadership position and for serving as a positive role model both on and off-duty.
Firefighter/Paramedic Keith Harrison was awarded the 2021 Paramedic of the Year Award. Harrison was hired by the Mesquite Fire Department in 1997 and he earned his paramedic certification in 1998. The Paramedic of the Year award is given to an outstanding paramedic who consistently demonstrates professional excellence in the emergency medical services, moral integrity, leadership and commitment to provide quality EMS services to the citizens of Mesquite.
Driver-Engineer/Paramedic Vance Lay was awarded the 2021 Mesquite Fire Department Firefighter of the Year Award. Lay started his career with the Mesquite Fire Department in 1992 and received his paramedic certification in 1994. He was promoted to Driver – Engineer in 2000. The Firefighter of the Year Award is given to an outstanding firefighter who consistently demonstrates professional excellence, moral integrity, and an abiding commitment to provide quality service to the citizens of Mesquite.
MFD also awarded the Life Saving Award to 12 teams. The Life Saving Award is presented to any Firefighter who is directly responsible for saving a human life. Ten employees received the Attendance Merit Bar and 41 employees were awarded the Physical Ability Test (PAT) Fitness Bar.