Commendations and Reference Letters for Michael Karl McNeil
Awards made to Michael Karl McNeil are listed first, then the fire service letters. Fifteen letters from 1995 to 2002 are held on file. The passages below are quoted exactly, spelling included, and each writer is identified by initials, rank and type of organization.
Awards
- Certificate of Congressional Recognition, United States House of Representatives, January 2024, citing “Heroic Diligence” and “Unwavering Dedication to the Safety of our Students and Community”
- Certificate of Appreciation, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, United States Marine Corps, 16 June 2008, presented to “Fire Prevention Battalion Chief Mike McNeil” for “Years of Selfless, Dedicated Service and Sacrifice to the Safety of Others”
- Federal fire Certificate of Merit for the period 1 October 2005 to 31 July 2006: hazardous materials site cleanup, hazard communication signage, safety data sheet information boards, right-to-know stations and review of training records
- Federal fire Certificate of Merit, January 2006: coordination of fire prevention programs and an update of the unit’s hazardous materials training program
- Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition, United States House of Representatives, 18 May 2001, presented at a city’s volunteer recognition ceremony
- City certificates of appreciation dated 6 May 2000, “For Outstanding Volunteer Service,” and 6 June 2002, “For Outstanding Volunteer Service in Station 6”
Fire service letters, newest first
T.H., Fire Captain, county fire department (8 June 2002)
“As a Certified Firefighter and Crew Leader, Mike has demonstrated exemplary leadership skills and is my ‘go to’ person when dealing with the Volunteer Fire Company.”
“He takes on the role of Company Training Officer and steps in to facilitate weekly training meetings.”
“Mike continuously seeks out projects, making improvements to the fire station and Volunteer Fire Company operated emergency equipment.”
“Mike always shows respect to his superiors and peers and demonstrates sound decision making on emergency incidents.”
“Another important quality that Mike possesses is his concern for his own personal safety and that of his co-workers. Mike always exercises safe work practices around the fire station and on the fire ground.”
“Mike has nearly completed the requirements to become a Volunteer Fire Apparatus Engineer, qualified to drive and operate an ICS type I fire engine.”
G.P. and A.R., Fire Captains, city fire department (undated)
Written to the president of the department’s volunteer firefighter association.
“This letter is to inform you that we strongly recommend Volunteer Firefighter Michael McNeil be accepted into the … Volunteer Firefighter Association as an active member.”
“He is one of our top responders in terms of number of calls and number of hours put in.”
“A CHP Sargent has commended him for his actions on a TC incident that he came upon on his way home from a class.”
“Michael has no past or current disciplinary actions pending.”
“He has been an asset to the station during his probation and we are confident that he will continue to do so as an active member.”
R.A.S., Office of the Mayor, city government (6 May 2000)
“On behalf of the City Council, City staff and residents … I would like to take this opportunity to extend our most sincere gratitude to you for your commitment and dedication.”
“Please accept our heartiest congratulations for your spirit of volunteerism.”
R.M.G., Firefighter, city fire department (13 February 2000)
Written to a state natural-resources agency.
“I was able to observe Firefighter McNeil perform manipulative tasks; conduct daily station activities/training; and interact with his supervisors, peers, and the public.”
“Firefighter McNeil proved to be just as, if not more knowledgeable, than the paid full-time firefighters. He was very attentive, insightful, and eager to take initiative. He accomplished everything he was asked to do with enthusiasm and great attention to detail.”
“He was always very courteous to the public and showed extreme professionalism.”
“I take great pride in my reputation and thus feel confident in recommending Firefighter McNeil for whichever endeavors he pursues. I feel he has good leadership abilities and a positive attitude. I would work with Firefighter McNeil in any situation and hope that I have the opportunity to work with him again.”
P.M., Fire Engineer, city fire department (2 February 2000)
Written to the same state agency.
“Mike McNeil is a hardworking, intelligent young man.”
“Mike was always willing to assist in any work around the station regardless of the agency involved.”
“I am impressed by Mike’s level of maturity, knowledge, and experience for a twenty-six year old.”
“Your agency would be very fortunate to have Mike McNeil as an employee. I know that you would come to recognize Mike as a valuable asset to your organization.”
L.H., Fire Captain and community-college fire technology instructor (4 December 1999)
Written to the National Fire Protection Association.
“I will proctor Mike McNeil for his exam for fire prevention officer.”
“It would be my pleasure to monitor Mike as he challenges your test.”
G.S., Director of Health and Safety, county chapter of the American Red Cross (22 November 1999)
“Michael is always professional and courteous. His course evaluations show that his students find him quite competent.”
“I recommend Michael for the Instructor Trainer Program. With his knowledge and expertise, he would definitely be an asset to the American Red Cross.”
W.R.E., Fire Chief, city fire department (18 December 1997)
Written to a fire chief in another state.
“This letter is written as a recommendation for Michael Mc Neil who has worked as a volunteer … in fire prevention for the last 7 months.”
“He has been very helpful in doing research for inspections and fire plan checks during this time. He has also participated in inspections and tests of various fire prevention equipment.”
“I feel that he has been a great help to our department and would recommend him for these duties at this time.”
A fire protection district (26 June 1995)
Notice of selection as Reserve Fire Inspector. The signature block is not legible on the file copy.
“Thank you for attending the oral interview last Thursday for the position of Reserve Fire Inspector.”
“We are pleased to inform you that you have been selected to attend a two day orientation academy.”
Performance ratings
Three incident performance ratings, from 2000, 2003 and 2007, are reported on the Incidents page with the raters identified.
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