The Comox Fire Rescue chief has received a lifetime achievement award for his career and service.
Chief Gord Schreiner was presented with the award at the Chamber Awards Gala on Jan. 29. The award honours an individual who gives outstanding service in the community and shows a lifetime achievement over 20 years or more in the Comox Valley.
Schreiner began his career with the fire service in 1975. Twelve years later, he was promoted to deputy fire chief and then fire chief in 2000.
The town of Comox says he has travelled across Canada and parts of the globe in his over 40-year career including the United States and Saudi Arabia, presenting on different fire service programs and initiatives.
He has also received numerous awards throughout his career:
- 2004 Trainer of the Year award from the BC Fire Training Officers Association
- 2010 National Fire Chief of the Year from the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs
- 2010 Award of Excellence from the Justice Institute of BC
- 2012 Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal
- 2016 40-year Exemplary Fire Service Award from then Governor General of Canada David Johnston
His presence in the Comox Valley was also commemorated by Comox mayor Russ Arnott, who says he strives to make the community a better place.
“Gord has been a staple in the Comox Valley community for decades, enriching the lives of so many around him,” said Arnott. “Whenever there’s an opportunity to support the community and make it a better place, Gord is one of the first ones to offer his help. The direction and commitment he has provided to the Comox Fire Rescue team is what makes them one of the best fire departments around.”
Schreiner is also the educational chair of the Fire Chiefs Association of B.C., and a contributor to Firefighting in Canada magazine.
