Diego Mendiola Receives Lead by Example Award for Mentoring and Teamwork

Diego Mendiola

Hotshot Superintendent
Zigzag Ranger District, USFS
Honored for Mentoring and Teamwork

Diego Mendiola has been selected as one of the recipients for the 2016 Paul Gleason Lead by Example award. Three individuals and two groups from across the wildland fire service have been chosen to receive this national award.


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. Diego’s work in support of the Wildland Fire Leadership Development Program has been a demonstration of mentoring and teamwork.

Diego was recognized for his accomplishments as a valued mentor and team builder. Over the course of 30 years, he created a culture embodying the values of duty, respect, and integrity. With a humble personality and positive leadership style, he showed others what right looks like.

Mentoring and building the team were two of Diego's greatest strengths. His passion for duty and compassion for people surpassed fire and entered the realm of life skills. Diego's legacy will live on through those he led and served.

Congratulations, Diego, on a job well done!