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The John M. Buckman III Leadership Award, sponsored by Provident Insurance and the IAFC Volunteer & Combination Officers Section (VCOS), recognizes an outstanding chief officer from a volunteer or combination fire department who demonstrates exceptional leadership, integrity, professionalism, and values within the fire service.

The award honors leaders who make a meaningful impact at the local or regional level while exemplifying the qualities of strong fire service leadership.

Sponsored by

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Award Recognition

The award is presented annually at the Symposium in the Sun. In addition to receiving the award:

  • Provident covers the recipient’s travel and lodging expenses to attend the award ceremony.
  • VCOS provides complimentary registration to Symposium in the Sun.

Nominees must:

    • Be a chief officer of a volunteer or combination fire department.

    • Be a current IAFC member.

    • Demonstrate outstanding leadership, integrity, professionalism, and values within the fire service.

2025

Jason Caughey, Fire Chief, Laramie County Fire Authority (WY)

2024

Brian McQueen, Chief, Whitesboro Fire Department (NY)

2023

Tim Smith, Chief, Vincennes Township Fire Department (NJ)

2022

Hugh Owens, Public Fire Safety Officer, Glenn Dale Fire Association, Inc. (MD)

2021

David Lewis Sr., Retired Assistant Chief Odenton Volunteer Fire Company (MD)

2019

John Morrison, Chief Vienna Volunteer Fire Department (VA)

2018

James P. Seavey, Sr., Cabin John Park Volunteer Fire Department (MD)

2017

Judy Thill, Inver Grove Heights Fire Department (MN)

2016

Rich Cowger, Chief, Columbus Fire Rescue (MT)

2015

Joseph Florentino, Chief, Little Elm Fire Department (TX)

2014

Michael Morgan, Fire Chief, Colorado River Fire Rescue (CO)

2013

Charles Addington, II, EFO, Chief, Wolfforth Fire & EMS (TX)

2012

Christopher Barron, Fire Chief, Manchaca Fire/Rescue Department (TX)

2011

Christopher Jones, Chief, Mount Carmel Fire Department (TN)

2010

John E. Bales, Chief Golden Fire Department (CO)

2009

Randall F. Parr, Chief, Tomball Fire Department (TX)

Related Awards

The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) gives out general, section, and committee awards to honor leadership, bravery, and service in the emergency services.

  • VCOS Chair Award

    The VCOS Chair Award recognizes an individual or organization whose hard work and dedication has helped to further the mission of the VCOS and the IAFC.

  • William F. Jenaway Illness & Injury Prevention Award

    The William F. Jenaway Award recognizes fire departments for successful firefighter illness, injury prevention, wellness, or vehicle safety programs.

  • Training Officer Award

    The Training Officer Recognition Award honors fire service leaders who demonstrate excellence in training, education, and professional development.