Morden's fire chief has received a prestigious fire service award.

Andy Thiessen was honoured with this year's Mary Beth Dolin Meritorious Fire Service Medal.

He was nominated for the award by the Manitoba Association of Fire Chiefs, to recognize his 21 years of dedication in his role and to the Manitoba Fire Service.

"Initially very suprised. I just thought I was doing my job and trying to make things better," said Thiessen. "Aparently it was noticed by the Manitoba Association of Fire Chiefs board, that I guess I went over and above, but I didn't think I had. That's who nominated me and where it came from."

The award is named for Mary Beth Dolin to commemorate her spirit of public services which exemplifies the unselfish dedication to duty prized within fire services.

"They mentioned is the general development of the fire service in Manitoba," said Thiessen. "Getting the financial part of it in a good spot, as far as Manitoba Chiefs goes. Also, in fire prevention. I'm an advocate of fire prevention. If they worked us out of a job, that would be ideal. We know accidents do happen, but if we can prevent most of them from happening in the first place that's the goal. That's what I focus my energy on."

Thiessen was one of three people to receive the honour this year at a reception ceremony in the Manitoba Legislature in Winnipeg on Thursday morning where Growth, Enterprise and Trade Minister Cliff Cullen presented the medals.

"Each of these individuals recognized has demonstrated excellence, leadership and outstanding achievement in enhancing the safety of the people of Manitoba," said Cullen. "Members of Manitoba’s fire service protect the safety and well-being of our families, friends and neighbours every day.  When duty calls, they protect us through fire prevention, public education and rescue efforts.  Their generosity of spirit and strong commitment to duty in the performance of these dangerous tasks serves as an inspiration to all."

The two other recipients of the Fire Service Award were Garth McIntyre, deputy fire chief of Glenboro-South Cypress Fire Department; and Jack Robertson, captain of Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service.

The award was created to commemorate Mary Beth Dolin’s spirit of public service, which was exemplified by her unselfish dedication to duty, the minister said.  Dolin was dedicated to public service both as a teacher and school administrator, and also as a member of the Manitoba legislature.  

Thiessen, McIntyre and Robertson are the 31, 32 and 33 recipients of this award.