By Shenandoah Briere | July 12, 2023 - Daily Gazette<\/p>\n
SARATOGA SPRINGS \u2013 Saratoga Springs Firefighter Association president Joseph Brimhall was recently named the Union Man of the Year by the New York State Professional Fire Fighters Association.<\/p>\n
\u201cAny contribution I have been able to offer is because of the support of those closest to you,\u201d Brimhall said in a press release. \u201cMy wife, daughter, and son have supported my involvement in the union 100 percent \u2013 and I [in] no words can adequately express their dedication to the union,\u201d said Brimhall.\u00a0 \u201cAt the fire house, you live, eat and sleep with your colleagues around-the-clock \u2013 their concerns become yours too \u2013 and their well-being and security of those who rely upon help shape and drive your decisions. The members of Local 343 \u2013 have come together in ways some may have never imagined. We are united.\u201d<\/p>\n
For over 20 years Brimhall has worked for the department and been part of the union leading efforts such as enhancing work conditions for members, according to the release.<\/p>\n
\u201cHe played a significant role in maintaining staff, and strengthening the union\u2019s collective bargaining agreement during his time as president,\u201d the release states.<\/p>\n
During his tenure at the department Brimhall rescued a trapped resident during a call for a fire at a high-rise and also responded to a mass shooting event that included 11 other firefighters.<\/p>\n
Over the last couple of years Brimhall has helped to ensure the city\u2019s fire department maintains a four-man crew and is ready for the opening of the city\u2019s third fire station, according to the release.<\/p>\n
\u201cJoe Brimhall is a leader, professional, and a problem solver, who consistently stands up for his members in good faith while successfully executing every task at hand to protect his community, in which he lives and works,\u201d said Sam Fresina, President of the NYSPFFA.<\/p>\n