Chief Cornford awarded Employee of the Quarter honors

By Shannon Weidemann (McKone) on Tuesday, May 3rd, 2022 in Featured Stories Northeastern Oregon News

LA GRANDE – La Grande Fire Chief Cornford was recognized recently as Employee of the Quarter for his efforts and compassion during a fatal crash outside of La Grande.

The following information was posted on the La Grande Fire Departments Facebook page about the incident that lead to Chief Cornford being recognized.

“We all have thoughts on what makes a great leader. Hopefully you’ve been fortunate enough to experience working for one. Ours was recognized this past week for something that comes second nature to him, but is one of the reasons we’re proud to call him Chief!

It was during an emergency call that many of us in public service would prefer just didn’t happen. On this particular wintery morning, a crash occurred just outside of town, taking the life of a driver. Chief Cornford did the kind of thing he’s known for, spending the rest of his day tending to the needs of the surviving passenger. Providing a coat, warm boots, a warm vehicle and compassion while on the scene of the crash. Then offering up the fire station, lunch and kindness while helping arrange for family to reunite the survivor with their loved ones. The final touch, driving across a mountain pass so that loved ones could more quickly embrace and provide comfort to someone very much in need.

Not the typical day of a Fire Chief for sure. But these types of acts are typical for this Fire Chief! Chief Cornford we salute you! Your Employee of the the Quarter recognition is well deserved! Thank you for all you do!

Yes we know, you’d rather it had gone unmentioned. Apparently Chief’s don’t control everything ”