The Dalton Fire Department has honored its Firefighter of the Year. The honor of being selected as the department's Firefighter of the Year is more special because the recipient is chosen by a vote of their fellow firefighters. For 2023, that honor is going to Lt. Gary Stanley.
"You may remember him," Chief Todd Pangle told the Public Safety Commission on Tuesday when presenting the award to Lt. Stanley at the board's monthly meeting. “We recognized him recently (with a certificate of commendation for life-saving heroics after a motor vehicle crash near his home) so this has been a good span of time for Lt. Stanley."
Lt. Stanley has served the fire department for 24 years, joining the agency in 1999. Chief Pangle noted that during his career, Lt. Stanley has worked his way up through the ranks with a goal of becoming an officer which he achieved earlier this year with his promotion to lieutenant. In addition to his assigned duties, Lt. Stanley has also served as the commander of the fire department's honor guard and represents the agency at various functions in differing roles, including singing the national anthem.
The Firefighter of the Year Award recognizes the firefighter who exemplifies the true meaning of commitment and pride within the fire service. Each year, members of the fire department nominate their fellow firefighters for the award and then a vote of all agency personnel determines the honoree.
"It is for his commitment to the community, enthusiasm for the profession, and selfless acts that Gary has been chosen," said Chief Pangle before presenting the award to Lt. Stanley.