Shelton Volunteer Fire Company Announces Award Winner
SHELTON-Derby — Officials from Shelton fire departments announced on Sunday that a local firefighter has received national recognition for service within the state. The recipient is Dale Lesko, who serves with the Shelton Volunteer Fire Co. #4 Pine Rock Park.
Fire officials confirmed to Patch staff via email that Lesko was recently named the American Legion Department of Connecticut Firefighter of the Year for 2026. This designation marks a specific honor bestowed by the state-level organization overseeing volunteer firefighting efforts in Connecticut.
The announcement came after an evaluation process conducted by fire officials, who reviewed contributions made to safety and community welfare across the region during the eligibility period leading up to July 15, 2026. The date of the report indicates that news regarding Lesko’s selection was disseminated publicly on Wednesday at approximately 12:29 p.m., according to records from Patch.
Lesko received the award while representing Shelton Volunteer Fire Co. #4 Pine Rock Park, a volunteer-based emergency response unit operating within Shelton-Derby. The company noted that Lesko’s selection was “well-deserved,” reflecting an internal assessment of his performance and dedication.
According to the organization, Lesko is a member whose contributions align with high standards expected by both local volunteers and state-level authorities. The recognition highlights individual achievements within a larger network of emergency responders who serve Connecticut communities on a volunteer basis.
Citation from Shelton Volunteer Fire Co. #4 Pine Rock Park
Following the announcement, representatives for Shelton Volunteer Fire Co. #4 Pine Rock Park issued statements expressing pride in Lesko’s selection. The company posted details regarding his achievement on its Facebook page, where a full post including photographs was made available to the public.
In their written statement, the company described Lesko as someone whose “dedication, professionalism, and commitment to serving our community are evident in everything he does.” This description appears directly from social media records shared by Patch staff during coverage of the story.
Lesko’s recognition was attributed specifically to his “consistent efforts to go above and beyond,” as stated in official communications released by the fire company. The organization further emphasized that Lesko demonstrates a pattern of behavior characterized by hard work and selfless service.
Volunteer firefighters often balance personal responsibilities with emergency response duties, requiring significant time commitment without guaranteed compensation. Shelton Volunteer Fire Co. #4 Pine Rock Park highlighted this aspect in its tribute to Lesko, noting how his actions reflect values central to volunteer fire services across Connecticut.
The award serves as a formal acknowledgment from the American Legion Department of Connecticut, which oversees such honors annually. Selection for this title involves review by departmental committees that assess candidates based on criteria established each year prior to announcement.
Community Impact and Organizational Pride
Lesko’s selection has drawn attention from local residents and emergency services personnel who monitor developments within Shelton-Derby. The company stated that it is “incredibly proud to have Lesko as a member of its organization,” indicating strong internal support for his continued service.
Photos accompanying the Facebook post show Lesko in uniform alongside other members, though specific details about individual roles or ranks were not provided beyond general descriptions of professionalism and commitment. These images serve to humanize the award within a broader context of daily operations at Pine Rock Park Station.
Award Structure Within American Legion Department
The title “Firefighter Of The Year” represents one category among several honors available through the American Legion Department of Connecticut. Other categories typically recognize contributions in areas such as training, equipment maintenance, or community outreach programs.
Lesko specifically falls under the primary firefighter classification for 2026, distinguishing him from peers recognized in alternative categories during recent cycles. The award cycle runs annually, with final selections made before summer months to coincide with public awareness campaigns and recognition events held later in the year.
Patch Staff Reporting Details
RJ Scofield of Patch reported on Lesko’s selection following confirmation from fire officials. The article published under his byline included direct quotes sourced from Shelton Volunteer Fire Co. #4 Pine Rock Park, ensuring attribution for all claims made regarding motivations or sentiments expressed.
Availability of Full Social Media Post
A complete version of the Facebook post containing additional photographs and expanded commentary remains accessible through links provided by Patch during initial reporting phases. Access to these materials allows readers outside Shelton-Derby to view visual documentation supporting written accounts found in news coverage.