Bill Webb recognised for fire service leadership at Washington symposium
Iain Hoey
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Bill Webb award announcement and symposium details
Bill Webb received the Mason Lankford Fire Service Leadership Award and the Firefighter Cancer Support Network (FCSN) received the Senator Paul S. Sarbanes Fire Service Safety Leadership Award at the 36th Annual National Fire and Emergency Services Symposium in Washington, D.C., on March 19, 2026.
The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF), the Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI) and Motorola Solutions announced the Mason Lankford award recipient, and the NFFF, CFSI, VFIS and UL’s Fire Safety Research Institute confirmed the Sarbanes award recipient.
More than 1,500 leaders in fire and emergency services attended the symposium to network, discuss current challenges and opportunities and honour those recognised by the organisations.
Bill Webb and the Mason Lankford award
Jointly sponsored by CFSI and Motorola Solutions, the Mason Lankford Fire Service Leadership Award recognises public safety leaders for work linked to prevention, mitigation and emergency response.
Bill Webb, Vice Chair of the Board of Directors at the NFFF and former Executive Director of CFSI, spent three decades leading CFSI and advocating for federal support for the fire service and for the health and safety of fire and emergency services personnel.
During his time at CFSI, Webb worked with six presidential administrations and congressional members on joint fire service positions tied to major legislation.
His work contributed to the creation of the Assistance to the Firefighters Grant program, the expansion of the Public Safety Officers’ Benefits program and the establishment of the federal First Responder Network Authority.
Troy Markel, Chair of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation Board of Directors, said: “Bill Webb’s steadfast dedication and passion for the fire and emergency services community exemplifies the impact and leadership of Mason Lankford.
“Bill has made a lasting impact on those who serve, meeting challenges head-on while always keeping the future of fire service programs in mind.
“His commitment extends beyond the profession, as he continues to support the families of our Fire Heroes.
“I’m proud to serve alongside him on the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation Board of Directors.”
Firefighter Cancer Support Network recognised for report
Co-sponsored by CFSI and NFFF with support from VFIS and UL’s Fire Safety Research Institute, the Senator Paul S. Sarbanes Fire Service Safety Leadership Award recognises a public safety organisation for contributions to firefighters’ health and safety.
The Firefighter Cancer Support Network received the award for its report, Doing it Right: Reducing Cancer in the Fire Service.
Developed with fire service leaders and cancer researchers, the programme sets out how to reduce occupational cancer risks faced by firefighters.
It provides steps to limit exposure and support long-term occupational health.
Victor Stagnaro, Chief Executive Officer of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, said: “Our nation’s firefighters put their lives on the line every day to protect our communities.
“FCSN’s ‘Doing It Right’ report gives them the tools to reduce those risks and safeguard their health over the long term.
“With innovative programs like this, we can reduce the invisible threat of cancers, strengthen firefighter safety, and support those who serve through education.
“We are proud to recognize FCSN with this well-deserved award.”
More information about the Mason Lankford Fire Service Leadership Award and the Senator Paul S. Sarbanes Fire Service Safety Leadership Award is available at cfsi.org/awards.