Chief to receive Queen's Fire Service Medal

​Our Chief Fire Officer, John Buckley, has been named in the Queen's New Year Honours list for 2022.

John will receive the prestigious Queen's Fire Service medal as recognition for his contribution to the fire and rescue sector.

John is described as a dedicated and caring leader who has committed a lifetime to serving the communities of Nottingham and Nottinghamshire.

He has made a significant contribution to the work of the Fire Fighters Charity, which supports serving and retired firefighters and their families, and the National Fire Chief's Council, where he has led and supported colleagues across the country and offered expert advice to the Government.

Having been with Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service since 1996, and as the Chief Fire Officer since 2014, John will officially retire in April 2022.

Chief Fire Officer John Buckley said:

"I am incredibly humbled and honoured to be recognised like this.  I've been fortunate to work with some exceptionally skilled and committed people both locally and nationally and together we have made a difference.

"There have been some big challenges along the way, including the pandemic and austerity, but we've responded to those and continue to as one team.

"I'd like to thank everyone past and present at Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service – this award is a testament to their hard work and dedication I'm very proud to have led this fantastic service."

Councillor Michael Payne, Chair of the Nottinghamshire and City of Nottingham Fire Authority, congratulated John on this news.

"John's leadership of our fire service has been nothing short of exemplary. He's also played a key role supporting other fire services across the country - it couldn't be more fitting for him to receive this award.

"He's an inspirational leader who cares a great deal about his staff, I see this in his work every day.  John makes sure people are safe and that their welfare is taken care of, that they are supported to grow, develop and flourish as individuals and that they have all the skills and training necessary to deliver the best service possible.

"Under John's leadership, our fire service has created safer communities across Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, played a major role in the country's covid vaccination effort, and worked closely with other emergency services to ensure the fire service is always doing the best by the people of our city and county.

"Congratulations John and thank you for all you have done."