On June 21, 2009, two members of the McLean VFD were awarded Volunteer Fire and Rescue awards at the Board of Supervisors Meeting. John Hootman received the Firefighter of the Year award and Mary Zocchi received the Administrative Member of the Year award. The awardees were chosen from the 12 volunteer companies in Fairfax County. Excerpts from the nomination forms follow:
John Hootman - Firefighter of the Year
"What sets John apart from most volunteers who enter our system is his willingness to become involved in all aspects of department operations and administration. John truly takes the term volunteering to new levels. He actively seeks out, and successfully completes, tasks that need to be accomplished to further the mission of volunteering in Fairfax County. In this regard he has become a most active cheerleader, mentor, and leader within our organization. John is a true champion for any volunteer who desires to develop new levels of expertise. Being well above average in firefighting and EMT skills he is always willing to provide training and encouragement to other volunteer members. He is fair and just in his critical analysis of both others and situations. The accomplishments of others are a true source of pride to John."
Mary Zocchi - Administrative Member of the Year
"Mary possesses exceptional organizational skills and a relentless follow up technique. She relates well to others and this is evident at intake interviews which she conducts. She has developed an instructional packet which allows the perspective member to understand exactly what is involved in volunteering and a similar packet which leads the new member through the total process of becoming an operational addition to our organization. In addition she has developed a system for follow up during the probationary year which has led to fewer new members dropping by the wayside. Mary has proven to be an exceptional administrative leader. Mary brings all of her administrative skills and thought processes to our board of directors on which she serves. She possesses strong written and verbal skills of communication and uses them effectively guide and stimulate discussion. She has great insight as to the role of the volunteer in our county system and understands clearly what we have to accomplish as a department in order to fill the role."
Congratulations Mary and John on your achievements!
