Emergency services personnel recognized

Advance Photo Submitted by Rob Vogt. AWARDED: Three emergency services personnel with the Municipal District of Willow Creek received Alberta Emergency Services Medals, for years of outstanding service, from MLA Chelsae Petrovic at a ceremony at the M.D. council chambers on Aug. 14. From left are Petrovic; Derrick Krizsan, the M.D.’s chief administrative officer; his wife Rhonda; and Reeve Maryanne Sandberg.

– Former M.D. of Taber CAO Krizsan receives the Alberta Emergency Services Medal

By Rob Vogt
Claresholm Local Press

Three outstanding emergency services personnel have been recognized with a prestigious award.

The council of the Municipal District of Willow Creek welcomed Chelsae Petrovic, MLA for Livingstone-Macleod, to their Aug. 14 meeting, where she presented Alberta Emergency Services Medals to Kelly Starling, Scott Elford, and Derrick Krizsan.

She explained the Alberta Emergency Services Medal recognizes the dedication and service of emergency services personnel in Alberta who have played key roles in prevention, preparedness, and emergency response.

This medal is awarded to those who have committed 12, 22, 32, or 40 years of service.

Eligible recipients include firefighters, peace officers, and any individual appointed under the Emergency Management Act, such as directors and deputy directors of emergency management.

“Today, the M.D. of Willow Creek is proud to have three individuals eligible to received this distinguished honour.

Before the presentations, Reeve Maryanne Sandberg took a moment to thank the spouses and families of these individuals.

“As a community, we are immensely grateful for the strength and support you provide to your loved ones who serve as emergency services personnel,” she said. “Your patience and understanding during long hours, late nights and missed family moments do not go unnoticed.

“The sacrifices you make allow your loved ones to focus on their vital roles, knowing that they have a solid support system at home.

“Thank you for being the backbone that supports these individuals, and even though your role often goes unsung, please know it is essential and deeply appreciated by all.”

Derrick Krizsan

Krizsan has been deeply involved in emergency services from the very beginning of his municipal career.

In 2002, he was appointed as a director of disaster services, followed by his role as director of emergency management, and he also served as a volunteer firefighter for five years.

Currently, Krizsan continues to serve the community as the deputy director of emergency management for the M.D. of Willow Creek.

Krizsan’s unwavering commitment, guidance, and support have significantly enhanced the M.D.’s preparedness and response capabilities. His leadership has not only improved the M.D.’s performance in emergency management but has also instilled a deep sense of confidence and trust within the community.

“Now, I know what you might be thinking – how convenient that our CAO (chief administrative officer) is receiving a medal. But I assure you, even though Derrick is the CAO, this is no rigged operation,” Petrovic said with a smile. “His dedication and hard work have truly earned him this honour.”

Sandberg concluded the presentations bu again commending the three award recipients and all emergency services personnel.

“The years of service do not go unrecognized,” she said.

“You are always looking after others.

“We deeply appreciate everything you have done.”