BARSTOW, Calif. -- It has been said that the recognition of one’s efforts by their peers is the most powerful form of appreciation a man or woman can receive. When the acknowledgement comes from an organization considered the best in the Department of Defense at what it does, the honor takes on a whole new meaning.
Such was the case recently when the Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow Fire and Emergency Services Division leadership selected the annual award winners in three categories for firefighter recognition.
“We have an awards plan and we give out awards quarterly,” said Paul Purdy, an assistant fire chief aboard MCLBB. “At the end of the year, all of the fire chiefs get together and pick the yearly winners.”
“Our main criteria are simple,” he added. “We look for what each firefighter has done to go above and beyond their normal duties, such as completing additional programs and anything that helps the fire department.”
The winners in the three categories of Firefighter of the Year, Fire Officer of the Year and Chief Fire Officer of the Year were Michelle Bledsoe, Albert Rickwalt and Don Simard respectively, said Purdy.
“It was extremely difficult to narrow it down to those three selections,” he continued, “because we had to look at all of the floor personnel and they’re all outstanding performers who each go far beyond what is expected of them in their everyday duties.”
For Bledsoe, a Barstow native, receiving an award was both unexpected and a moment she will treasure.
“It’s an honor,” she said. “I was very surprised and a little embarrassed because I’m not really the type of person who wants a lot of attention. Even though I had no idea I would receive the award, it felt really good.”
In addition to being named Firefighter of the Year, Bledsoe’s award presentation was special for sentimental reasons as well.
“It was arranged for my husband Jeremy to be there, which was a surprise, because he’s really busy as a Barstow Police Officer,” she said with a smile. “That made it even better.”
“I plan on keeping the award on display for a little while,” Bledsoe added. “But eventually I’ll find a special place to put it in my home.”