IBEW Local 1245 is pleased to congratulate 1245 member Jeff Gomes, a PG&E Lineman, Orland volunteer firefighter, and recipient of the 2016 Jefferson Award, which is widely recognized as “the country’s most prestigious and longest standing public service award.”
Gomes has volunteered more than 15,000 hours in his 26 years as a volunteer firefighter, which include six years as fire chief and four years as assistant chief. As a first responder, Gomes has been among the first on the scene for numerous accidents, fires and other emergencies, and has saved countless lives.
“It makes you feel good to give back and not expect anything in return,” Gomes told KHSL Action News Now. “I enjoy it, and I hope it encourages other people to do the same; get out there and give back to the community.”
Congressman John Garamendi (left) posted this photo with Jeff Gomes on his Facebook page, along with a message of appreciation.
“Jeff’s selfless dedication to helping others is truly exemplary,” said IBEW 1245 Business Manager Tom Dalzell. “He is an inspiration to us all, and I can’t think of anyone who is more deserving of this award.”
As a local Jefferson Award recipient, Gomes was invited to attend the Jefferson Awards National Ceremony, a black-tie event which took place in Washington DC in mid-June. Gomes and the other award winners were all given the opportunity to deliver a speech, as well as tour the National Monuments and participate in three unique service projects.
While in DC, Gomes got to meet Congressman John Garamendi, who thanked Gomes for his commitment to helping others.
“Mr. Gomes was the first person on the scene at the tragic accident in Orland when a FedEx truck collided with a tour bus full of students, killing 10 people,” Congressman Garamendi wrote on Facebook. “Mr. Gomes’ dedication to his community saved lives that day, and I am grateful for his efforts.”
Gomes at the IBEW International Headquarters in Washington DC
Gomes and his family were also invited to visit the IBEW International Headquarters in Washington, DC. They received a tour of the utility offices, met with the media team and got to check out the IO’s presidential offices. They left with plenty of IBEW memorabilia to bring back home.