Congratulations to Chris Leslie, Oshawa’s Firefighter of the Year

Oshawa Fire Services (O.F.S.) is pleased to announce Chris Leslie as the Durham A.M. Kiwanis Firefighter of the Year.

Born and raised in Durham Region, Chris joined O.F.S. in 2009. He quickly became part of the Technical Rescue Team, joining in 2010, and is currently certified in rope, confined space, trench and water rescues. Chris is also an O.F.S. elevator technician.

Chris is a well-respected leader within Oshawa Fire Services and his crew. His experience, composure and ability to work seamlessly within the team all played a significant role during a recent townhouse fire where his crew saved the life of a young child.

Chris is active in the larger Oshawa community and passionate about volunteering. Since 2017, he has been volunteering his time during the holiday season picking up food for St. Vincent de Paul and was a volunteer firefighter with Port Hope Fire and Emergency Services prior to joining Oshawa Fire Services.

Established in 1974 by Durham A.M. Kiwanis, the Firefighter of the Year Award recognizes one member of the Oshawa Fire Services annually for their exceptional job performance. Recipients are nominated by their colleagues and chosen by senior staff.

For information about Oshawa Fire Services, visit Oshawa.ca/Fire or follow them on Twitter.

For City of Oshawa updates, visit Oshawa.ca/NewsCentre to follow us on social media, subscribe to news and alerts, and have your say on Connect Oshawa.

Quotes

“Congratulations on receiving the Durham A.M. Kiwanis Firefighter of the Year Award, Chris, it is well-deserved,” said Mayor Dan Carter. “Your commitment to the Oshawa community has not gone unnoticed. We thank you for your service.”

“Congratulations, Chris! We thank you and all of the Oshawa Fire Services team for their commitment and dedication to protecting our community,” said Councillor Brian Nicholson, Chair of the Safety & Facilities Services Committee.

“Chris, congratulations on this fitting award,” said Councillor Rick Kerr, Vice-Chair of the Safety & Facilities Services Committee. "Your work in our community and with O.F.S. have made you a real life community hero. We are so thankful for all you do."