By TERRY PUGH
Several area fire departments were among 64 fire departments across the province to receive the Premier’s Commendation during a ceremony at the Legislative Building in Regina on Tuesday, December 2.
Memers of Warman Fire Rescue (WFR), Martensville Fire Department (MFD), Dalmeny Fire and Rescue (DFR), Osler Fire Department, and the Blucher Lost River Fire District were officially recognized by Premier Scott Moe for their efforts in battling northern wildfires in 2025.
Also, in attendance to recognize this year’s recipients were Corrections, Policing and Public Safety Minister Tim McLeod, K.C., Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency President and Fire Commissioner Marlo Pritchard, Social Services Minister/Warman MLA Terry Jenson and Provincial Secretary/ Martensville MLA Jamie Martens.
“The Premier’s Commendation recognizes those whose actions exemplify courage, responsibility and service to others,” Premier Moe said. “Those honoured today responded decisively in moments of great need, demonstrating the strength of character and commitment that uphold the values of our province.”
“This award is an acknowledgement of the bravery of those protecting Saskatchewan families and communities during one of the most devastating wildfire seasons on record,” Corrections, Policing and Public Safety Minister Tim McLeod, K.C. said. “The award recipients are representative of the unwavering commitment and strength that defines this province.”
Warman Fire Chief Russ Austin said in a social media post that he and the members of WFR “are proud to have served” during this past summer’s wildfire crisis.
Dalmeny Fire Chief Tom Moody said, in a social media post, that his department is honoured to be included among the recipients. “Our members showed resilience, dedication, and courage when it mattered most,” said Moody. “And we couldn’t be prouder of the team that represents our community. Protecting Saskatchewan families is a responsibility we don’t take lightly. Thank you to everyone who served alongside us. On behalf of all of us at Dalmeny Fire and Rescue, we are grateful for the recognition and for the continued support of our community.”
The Martensville Fire Deaprtment posted on social media that its members are proud to have served.
“MFD extends our sincere thanks to everyone involved, from the members who deployed to the north to those who remained here to ensure our community stayed protected,” stated the MFD post. “Your dedication and teamwork continue to make us proud.”
From 2012-2018 the award recognized Saskatchewanians, individually or in groups, who have conducted themselves bravely or meritoriously.
In 2025, the program was revived to honour those who responded to the 2025 wildfire threats for their extraordinary efforts during the 2025 wildfire season.
The ceremony December 2 recognized the volunteer and municipal fire departments, and Type 2 firefighters who heroically protected communities and supported the Saskatchewan people when they were in need.
Representatives from these fire departments and tribal councils attended the ceremony to accept the award on behalf of all members who fought the fires.
Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency Type 1 firefighters and support personnel, will be recognized at a separate event in early 2026.