The Congressional Fire Services Institute’s board of directors has selected Garry Briese, former executive director of the International Association of Fire Chiefs, as the recipient of the 2007 Mason Lankford Fire Service Leadership Award. The presentation will take place at the 19th Annual National Fire and Emergency Services Dinner on March 29 in Washington, D.C.

For 22 years, Briese served as IAFC executive director, providing strong leadership to its members and to the fire and emergency services nationwide. He has been credited for developing partnerships and programs that have enhanced the unity of the fire service and has drawn national awareness to the challenges and needs of firefighters worldwide.

The Mason Lankford Fire Service Leadership Award was established to recognize an individual who has been proactive at the local, state or federal government level to improve the fire and emergency services and life-safety issues. Jointly sponsored by the CFSI and Motorola since 1998, the award is given to those who exemplify the work of the late J. Mason Lankford Jr., former Tarrant County, Texas, fire marshal.

According to the CFSI, "Mason's legacy resonates in the message he would impart calling for a stronger fire service without leaving anyone behind. Mason waged his best battles not on the fire ground, but in congressional and state legislative offices. He did not look at issues with any predisposition that favored one group over another. Mason sought a fire service that stressed preparation and readiness of all responders."