Tuesday, April 5, 2016

Justin Vernon Receives Lead by Example Award

Dr. Carl Seilstad presenting Justin Vernon his award
(2013 LBE Award winner Dr. Carl Seilstad presenting Justin Vernon his award; photo credit: Megan Cook)

Justin Vernon
Boise Fire Module Crewmember
U.S. Forest Service
Honored for Motivation and Vision


Justin Vernon has been selected as one of the recipients for the 2015 Paul Gleason Lead by Example award. Four individuals from across the wildland fire service have been chosen to receive this national award.

Justin Vernon with his parents
(Vernon Family; photo credit: Megan Cook)
The award was created by the NWCG Leadership Committee to remember Paul Gleason’s contributions to the wildland fire service. During a career spanning five decades, Paul was a dedicated student of fire, a teacher of fire, and a leader of firefighters. The intent of this award is to recognize individuals or groups who exhibit this same spirit and who exemplify the wildland fire leadership values and principles. Justin’s work in support of the Wildland Fire Leadership Development Program has been a demonstration of motivation and vision.

Justin was recognized for his ability to use contemplative writing to express deep thought into cultural issues within the fire service. Posts such as “The Value of Facing Irrational Fears” and “Breaking the Mold” have become springboards for others to talk about difficult topics in open forums or through quiet reflection.

Through his courage and willingness to share personal experiences, wildland firefighters are inspired to look introspectively to decide what type of firefighter or leader they would like to become. Justin's blog posts, as well as the books he recommends for the Professional Reading Program, bring leadership issues faced, but often not talked about, into meaningful conversation across the wildland fire service. His humble approach and candor through written expression and personal example exemplify the values of duty, respect and integrity.

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Check out Justin's blogs on the Wildland Fire Leadership Development blog and his personal blog Chasing Fire.

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