Frontier Volunteer Fire Co.'s Megan McDonough honored with FASNY Fire Service Community Achievement Award

Firefighters Association of the State of New York Press Release

EMS Lt. Megan McDonough of the Frontier Volunteer Fire Co. was named the recipient of the 2024 Fire Service Community Achievement Award by the Firefighters Association of the State of New York, one of the state’s highest honors for community-focused service and leadership in the volunteer fire service.

McDonough, a standout in Niagara County’s emergency services, has spent the past four years leading efforts to modernize EMS operations and enhance continuing education within her department. Her dedication to training, mentoring, and community outreach has not only strengthened Frontier’s emergency response capabilities, but also elevated the broader community’s safety and resilience.

“Megan has dedicated countless hours to building training that empowers our responders and strengthens our capabilities,” Frontier Fire Chief Alan Perry said. “Her leadership and drive are making a lasting impact.”

Certified as a BLS CPR and Stop the Bleed instructor, McDonough also mentors junior firefighters, fosters a culture of excellence, and continues to serve the region through her work with Tri-Community Ambulance and the American Red Cross Disaster Action Team. She is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in emergency management.

Her philosophy of teamwork and compassion is summed up in her own words: “When we lift each other’s weaknesses and forge them into strengths, we rise – not alone but as one unstoppable force.”

McDonough’s service extends well beyond emergency calls. She donates handmade blankets to local animal shelters and supplies books to community libraries – just a few examples of the quiet but meaningful ways she gives back.

“Megan McDonough represents everything the volunteer fire service aspires to be: compassionate, innovative, and deeply committed to the people she serves,” FASNY President Eugene Perry said. “Her leadership in the field and in the community sets an extraordinary example, and we are proud to honor her with this year’s Fire Service Community Achievement Award.”

McDonough previously earned the 2023 Frontier Firefighter of the Year Award and Catholic Health’s Excellence in Patient Care Award.

“Her ability to overcome obstacles and lead by example is paving the way for future generations of women in this industry,” Ambulance Chief Sherri Reischel said. “She is truly inspiring.”

The FASNY Fire Service Community Achievement Award honors individuals whose service goes above and beyond emergency response, recognizing those who make a significant, lasting impact on their community. McDonough will be formally recognized at FASNY’s annual convention this summer.

Founded in 1872, the Firefighters Association of the State of New York represents the interests of the 80,000 volunteer firefighters in New York. For more information, visit www.fasny.com.