Odenton Firefighter Honored As Public Safety Officer Of The Year

From OVFC: Christopher J. Banach of the Odenton Volunteer Fire Company (OVFC) received the Central Maryland Chamber of Commerce Public Safety Officer (Firefighter) of the Year award on 25 March 2019.

Chris joined the OVFC in September 2017 with prior fire service training and experience in Pennsylvania. He was able to successfully challenge the Maryland Firefighter certification requirements to become a responder with the fire company in a short time. He went on to complete Maryland Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) training and soon became an active responder on both the fire apparatus and ambulance. Chris also recently completed the Emergency Vehicle Operator course and the requirements to be cleared as an ambulance driver. Last year, he responded on 226 fire calls and 42 ambulance calls, which placed him as one of the “Top Ten” responders for 2018. Additionally, he completed 209 hours of training in 2018, the most of any OVFC member.

In addition to his impressive contributions to emergency operations, Chris was recently elected as a Member at Large on the Board of Directors. It is very unusual for a relatively new member to be elected to the Board, illustrating the very positive impression that Chris has made on the membership. We are very confident that he will serve us admirably in this administrative leadership role in the same manner as he has as an emergency responder. Chris has sound judgment and a strong sense of teamwork. He believes in the mission and future of our organization and has many valuable ideas for improving emergency service delivery, administrative functions, and community involvement. Chris consistently goes beyond his regularly assigned duties, takes charge when and where leadership is needed, and conscientiously performs all tasks assigned to him with total commitment and professionalism. His desire to make things better shows daily. He constantly searches for ways to improve himself, his fellow members, and the organization.

Chris is a valuable member of OVFC. He serves as a role model and mentor for other members due to his demonstrated abilities, enthusiasm, and commitment.