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Congratulations to Division Chief Louie Fajardo, recipient of the City of Coral Gables “Firefighter of the Month Award,” for the month of February 2026.
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Division Chief Fajardo has been selected as February’s Firefighter of the Month specifically for his initiative, leadership, and dedication to the fire service beyond our borders.
Division Chief Fajardo heard of a fatal motor vehicle accident involving a friend in Abaco, Bahamas. Local responders arrived quickly but lacked the proper vehicle extrication equipment necessary to effectively assist the patient. Drawing upon his extensive expertise in vehicle extrication, Division Chief Fajardo immediately recognized the critical gap in resources and the impact it could have on future emergencies.
Rather than allowing the experience to end there, Division Chief Fajardo took proactive action. He coordinated with a local vendor to secure donated vehicle extrication equipment for the island’s firefighters. He personally arranged the logistics, including shipping and delivery, ensuring the equipment reached the island and would be available should a similar incident occur in the future.
Division Chief Fajardo’s actions demonstrate exceptional professionalism, compassion, and commitment to saving lives. His efforts not only honor the fire service but have directly improved the emergency response capabilities of an entire community.
Due to his outstanding work ethic and dedication to the department, Chief Louie Fajardo is nominated Firefighter of the month for February 2026.