Darryl Johnson named Firefighter of the Year
Crowsnest Pass Fire Rescue Captain Darryl Johnson was recognized as Firefighter of the Year during a presentation on Dec. 6, 2025. Fire Chief Jesse Fox presented the award, praising Johnson for his dedication, leadership and years of service, and describing him as a steady presence who leads by example both on scene and within the department. Herald Contributor photo
Fire Chief Jesse Fox presented the Crowsnest Pass Fire Rescue award on Dec. 6
Crowsnest Pass Fire Rescue recognized Captain Darryl Johnson as its Firefighter of the Year during a Dec. 6, 2025, presentation made by Fire Chief Jesse Fox.
Fire Chief Jesse Fox, who presented the award, described Johnson as “one of the finest individuals to ever belong to our department,” and said the captain’s name had become “synonymous with dedication, leadership, and unwavering service.”
In remarks delivered during the presentation, Fox said Johnson’s impact went beyond the calls he had attended and included the way he supported colleagues and helped the department improve.
Fox said Johnson “sets the standard day after day, year after year,” adding that his contributions were measured by “the countless ways he elevates everyone around him.”
Fox pointed to Johnson’s mentorship and steady presence in demanding situations, saying he served “with integrity, humility, and an unwavering sense of duty.” He said Johnson led “not through rank, but through example,” and that his “presence on scene brings calm to chaos.”
Fox also credited Johnson with strengthening the department outside of emergency response.
He said Johnson had focused on “improving our training programs,” “advocating for firefighter safety,” and “pushing us all to be better than we were the day before.”
Fox said many of the advancements the department relied on existed because Johnson “cared enough to put in the time, effort, and vision needed to make them possible.”
In an email response to the Pass Herald, Fox said strong performance and work culture were priorities for Crowsnest Pass Fire Rescue, and that Johnson “not only adheres to our cultural standard but is an advocate for growth and its progress.”
Fox said the award recognized more than a single year.
“Tonight’s award is not just a reflection of the past year’s exceptional performance,” he said. “It is a recognition of a career spent giving.”
Residents who want to share a memory about Johnson’s service, or suggest other local stories of service and recognition, can reach out to the Pass Herald.
Crowsnest Pass Fire Rescue Captain Darryl Johnson was recognized as Firefighter of the Year during a presentation on Dec. 6, 2025. Fire Chief Jesse Fox presented the award, praising Johnson for his dedication, leadership and years of service, and describing him as a steady presence who leads by example both on scene and within the department.