Unfortunately, because of Covid, we are still limited to gatherings of 50 or less and are unable to hold our Annual Award Ceremony. That being said, over the next week or two we will be posting pictures and details of the individuals who would have been recognized at this year's ceremony.
We are pleased to announce the recipient of our first award, Firefighter of the Year, is Shift Commander Mark Cotrano.
Shift Commander Mark Cotrano began his career with the Park Forest Fire Department on August 27, 2007. Commander Cotrano has always been an active participant in department activities and has worked hard to advance his education and knowledge which aided him in his promotion to Lieutenant on August 16, 2015 and to Shift Commander on January 10, 2021.
Commander Cotrano continually exhibits commitment, professionalism, and integrity, and has grown into a leader within the fire department. His can-do attitude and desire to participate in special assignments has resulted in the completion of projects that have benefited the fire department, other Village departments, surrounding fire departments, and the residents of Park Forest.
Most recently, Commander Cotrano accepted the task of coordinating grant writing efforts on behalf of the Department. As the principal grant writer, Commander Cotrano successfully secured FEMA grants to increase department staffing, provide PPE and decontamination equipment specifically for Covid-19, purchase a bariatric ambulance, and finally make upgrades to the fire prevention trailer. These efforts added up to over one million dollars in grant funding.
Commander Cotrano’s performance and professionalism are in keeping with the highest traditions of the Fire Service and reflect credit upon himself, the Fire Department and the Village of Park Forest.
Please join us in congratulating Shift Commander Mark Cotrano on this recognition as the 2020 Park Forest Fire Department Firefighter of the Year.