During a special banquet on May 10, the National Volunteer Fire Council presented Chief John M. Buckman III with the 2013 Lifetime Achievement Award for his numerous accomplishments, unwavering dedication and lifetime of outstanding performance in the fire service.
During the presentation, Chief Buckman especially thanked his wife, Leslie, for standing beside him and supporting him during his years in the fire service.
Chief Buckman has worked to improve the service delivery, training, safety and benefits for volunteer firefighters locally, nationally and internationally for over 25 years. He was instrumental in developing the first state fire training system in Indiana. At the national level, Buckman was a charter member of the Volunteer and Combination Officers Section of the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) and served as IAFC president in 2001-2002. Chief Buckman led the national volunteer fire service's response in Arlington, Virginia and New York City after the events of September 11.
Buckman is in his 43rd year of active membership at the German Township (Ind.) Volunteer Fire Department and recently retired from 36 years as operational leader of the department. He has presented in all 50 states, each province in Canada, and in China.