The Gray Fire Department celebrated accomplishments and recognized the dedication of members at its annual Christmas party, which includes promotions and awards.
Fire Chief Keith Eiesle welcomed attendees to the Dec. 19 occasion with a huge announcement for the residents of the City of Gray. When the results of the October evaluation of the Gray Fire Department by the Insurance Service Organization were received, the city’s rating is now a Class 3, which should mean a reduction of insurance costs for homeowners.
Eiesle said he was proud of the outstanding record of the GFD and its dedication to the best standards.
“Our hard work paid off,” he stated.
Eisele began the program by recognizing the dignitaries in the audience which consisted of Mayor Ed Barbee, Mayor Pro Tem James Collins and councilmen David Tufts, Terrell Fulford and Terry Favors.
The chief praised the dedication of the volunteer firefighters who deliver outstanding service to the city every day, round the clock.
“That alone speaks volumes, but tonight we are here to honor those who have gone above and beyond,” he said. “You certainly deserve this recognition.”
Eisele also thanked the families and friends who support the firefirefighters and the department.
“Our accomplishments would not be possible without your support,” he added.
Eisele has been a member of the GFD for 19 years and was appointed chief in 2018. He said when he accepted the position of chief, one of his key objectives was to lower the ISO ratting. He said a Class 3 rating for a volunteer fire department is rare, but he took it on as a challenge.
The chief said the department had a 4 rating in 2018, and the improvements have consisted of upgrading equipment and policy changes. He said other elements of the audit include the 911 communication system, public education initiatives, personnel, training, water availability, code enforcement, inspections, fire prevention strategies and response time.
Eisele said he received the news of the Class 3 rating the previous day. He said there are 37,730 fire departments across the U.S., and only 10.3 percent attain a class 3 rating.
The banquet was catered by Brown Sugar II, owned by Deuce Black.
Following the meal, Deputy Chief Carl Zimmer thanked family members for their support and the City of Gray. He also recognized department retirees who had given a combined 74 years of service.
“It is always a privilege to be in the presence of those who are part of our history and helped shape the Gray Fire Department into what it is today,” he said.
Eisele recognized the service award recipients, beginning with Patrick Peebles for 10 years of service and John Wood for his 30 years of service to the City of Gray.
Other service awards presented:
• CadetoftheYear-KadenCrenshaw
• RookieFirefighteroftheYear–Joshua Glover
• FirefighteroftheYear–EleanorClick
• SergeantoftheYear–AubreyRegister
• EducatoroftheYear–Capt.Heather Johnson
• SupportFirefighters–RogerMoxley, Christopher Hennessy, Bryce Bullock
• EiselecongratulatedJohnsonforher recent appointment as vice president of the Georgia Public Safety Educators Association.
Chief’s Award
Eisele said the Chief’s Award is for a person who demonstrates dedication, leadership, teamwork and creativity, with the selection made by the fire chief.
He presented the award to Zimmer, who joined the Gray Fire Department in 1997. The chief said Zimmer was a firefighter in Maryland before moving to Gray and has held the positions of lieutenant, captain and training officer.
He noted Zimmer will be moving out of state next year.
Final awards were the Spouse Award, presented to Brooke Register, and the Meritorious Award. Eisele said the Meritorious Award was given to individuals who consistently exceed their responsibilities and showcase a history of substantial contributions.
• LeeFaircloth–fleetandbuilding maintenance
• CarolineThompson–hugeassetto fire protection team and assists with education
• Peebles–beganafitnessprogramand meets members for a weekly fitness program
Promotions
Firefighters Mark B. Husted and Aubrey D. Register were promoted to lieutenant, and their families were invited to join them on stage for their pinning ceremony.
Eisele ended the program with appreciation to all who attended.
“Please join me in congratulating all those who received awards and promotions,” he said. “Stay dedicated, stay involved and never stop becoming a better leader or firefighter.”
