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Comment by Ryan James Johnsrud on July 16, 2010 at 10:02am

It is a tricky subject. No one says they do the work for the glory or the recognition, but responders need a goal to shoot for; something more than a vague idea of excellence. As a member of a volunteer department this is especially important. Even just the daily work and maintence that occurs in a paid department requires time away from family and free-time (and there is no adrenaline rush!) I have been thinking about presenting an idea for a three tier award system for hours of service over the past year.

Level I- Given when a responder puts in an additional 25 hrs of work.

Level II- 50-74 hrs.

Level III- 75+ hrs.

Each level would have a name like "Smoke-Eater Service Award, etc". Responders would log their hours in a manual at the Fire Hall in one of three sections: Call Response, Training, Department Maintence (cleaning, apparatus repair, community out-reach, and training/SOP development)

I'm just spit-balling here if you have any input feel free to let her rip!!