Hugh F. Morris Special Merit Medal

Hugh F. Morris became the first full-time paid Fire Chief of San Mateo on January 1,  1925. Chief Morris fought for more staffing, training, equipment, and fire stations.  Under his direction, he targeted improvements in training, fire prevention, and an alarm-receiving system. This medal is awarded to any Fire Department employee for performing other specially meritorious work not covered in other categories such as: 1) community service work; 2) outside volunteer services; 3) day-to-day excellence. 

Daniel W. Gadwah Chief's Commendation

South County Fire Authority Battalion Chief Daniel W. Gadwah died at age 46 on  November 1, 1999, from angiosarcoma, an unusual form of cancer that affected his heart. Though he had an outstanding career in the fire service, we honor his memory with this award because of his actions through legislation that benefit all in the fire service. As a result of his actions with legislators throughout the state and the country, Chief Gadwah was able to convince Assemblyman Lou Papan to champion California State Assembly Bill (AB539). This bill eliminated the burden of proving that a carcinogen to which a firefighter or peace officer was exposed is reasonably linked to the cancer and instead requires that the employer prove that the carcinogen was not reasonably linked to the disabling cancer. Because of Chief Gadwah, those fighting cancer no longer need to deal with proving that it came from work and can now deal with healing. This commendation is awarded to members of the department or community for outstanding service. 

John J. Norton Unit Commendations

In the early 1970's, Chief John J. Norton, Foster City's second and last Public Safety Director, was hired and so began the gradual split between the two professions (Police and Fire). Chief Norton's rationale for the separation revolved around several Fire Department Procedures Manual  issues including his desire to improve the reputation of the department and his strong feeling that one person could not be proficient in two very different jobs. In the early 1980's, the Department of Public Safety was dissolved in favor of separate police and fire departments. Chief Norton’s role was instrumental in forming the first Foster City Fire Department. This commendation will be awarded for activities performed by a fire company that deserve official recognition and require the endorsement of the Battalion Chief or department manager that is responsible for the subject employees. 

Israel Hernandez Cadet of the Year

Each year, a cadet is nominated for going above and beyond in our organization. In addition to completing their required training and mandatory hour requirements, they demonstrate exemplary dedication by volunteering countless hours to the department and by displaying a high level of overall professionalism, enthusiasm, and compassion. 

Tim Wong Volunteer Award

Tim Wong was a valued Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) member who initially joined the Belmont CERT program in 2012 and dedicated his life to the program until he passed away in March 2020. He was a prominent, skilled, and active CERT member who continued to dedicate his time and skills to helping the CERT program even while battling cancer. Tim was highly respected in the community and represents the ideal volunteer whose contributions have led to the success of the CERT program and building resilience in the community. This award shall be presented to any volunteer of the San Mateo Consolidated Fire Department for an outstanding contribution to the department or to the community on behalf of the department. The honoree should reflect the qualities of enthusiasm, high-energy, positive attitude, and team spirit.