| The Deputy Assistant Commissioner has improved the efficiency of London firefighters throughout his career |
Horndon on the Hill local resident Steve Smith has been named on the Queens Birthday Honours list.
Steve, who works for London Fire Brigade and is Deputy Assistant Commissioner in charge of firefighter training, was named amongst well known celebrities and community leaders who made it on to the list.
Nominated by London Fire Commissioner Ron Dobson, Steve (52) will be presented with his Queen’s Fire Service Medals at a ceremony due to be held later this year.
Some of the many achievements on Steve’s curriculum include being in charge of the Brigade’s response to the 7/7 bombings at Aldgate underground station; pioneering the use of London’s very first fire risk mapping system and setting up the first young offenders rehabilitation programme for fire services in the country.
With over 30 years of experience, the Deputy Assistant Commissioner is now in charge of London Fire Brigade’s training for the Olympics 2012. Working in partnership with fire services nationally, Steve’s role is to ensure that fire brigades across the country are prepared for the world’s biggest sporting event.
Commissioner Ron Dobson said: “Throughout his career, Steve has been committed to public service and has always looked at ways of improving the efficiency and professionalism of London’s firefighters. I’m proud to call Steve my colleague and a friend, and from everyone at the Brigade, would like to congratulate him on this outstanding award.”
Steve, of Mill Lane in Horndon on the Hill, said: “I feel immensely proud to be given this award. I’ve been privileged throughout my career with the Brigade and I’ve worked alongside and been supported by some fantastic people. Without my colleagues I wouldn’t have been able to achieve what I have done”.
“In particular and most importantly I would like to dedicate this award to my wife Madeline and our three children Rebecca, Charlotte and Thomas who have been by my side throughout my career”, added Steve.