2 Kirkland Firefighters Honored For Pandemic Efforts

KIRKLAND, WA — The King County Fire Chiefs Association has recognized two members of the Kirkland Fire Department for outstanding service during an especially challenging year.

According to the city, the association usually selects just one firefighter in the county to receive the annual commendation for distinguished service. This year, members moved to recognize both men for their work during the coronavirus pandemic. Kirkland was the nation's first epicenter of infections in the United States.

Deputy Chief Dave Van Valkenburg and Battalion Chief Bill Hoover shared the honor last week. Van Valkenburg was honored for his leadership in ensuring personal protective equipment for his crews, and Hoover for his leadership in developing policies.

"These leaders not only helped their respective agencies during this time of need but served the region as a whole," city officials wrote in a Facebook post. "Join us in congratulating Deputy Chief Van Valkenburg and Battalion Chief Hoover for these wonderful honors and thanking them for their tireless service to our community and the County!"

The KCFCA awarded eight letters of commendation in total, after creating new honors for exhibiting excellent leadership during the pandemic. Four awards went to the Seattle Fire Department, including chief of the year and firefighter of the year.