(L-R) Fire Chief Chad Augustin and Police Chief Gene Harris (Photo – cityofpasadena.net)
In recognition of their service and leadership during a recent major disaster, the Pasadena Police and Fire Departments have been named the 2025 recipients of the Paul Harris Community Award, one of the highest honors bestowed by the Pasadena Rotary Club.
By News Desk
Presented during a special ceremony on Wednesday, July 30, the award honors organizations and individuals who have made significant contributions to the community. Rotary International, the Club’s parent organization, is a global network of over one million members committed to addressing humanitarian challenges and fostering lasting change worldwide.
Police Chief Gene Harris and Fire Chief Chad Augustin accepted the award on behalf of their departments, joined by their respective Command Staffs. While appreciative of the recognition, both leaders emphasized that the true credit belongs to the first responders who risked their lives amid the devastation.
“It was the leadership within the organization who set the tone, but it was not us who did the work,” said Chief Gene Harris. “It was the folks on the front end of this thing that really stood up to make it so that we can be here talking about it in the way we are talking about it today.”
“This recognition belongs to the firefighters who answered the call without hesitation.” said Chief Chad Augustin. “Their courage, professionalism, and selfless service in the face of crisis exemplify the very best of our department.”
The award honors not only departmental leadership but also the bravery and dedication of those on the front lines, officers and firefighters who responded with urgency, compassion, and resolve during a crisis that left lasting scars on the community.
The Pasadena Rotary Club praised the departments’ resilience, coordination, and unwavering commitment throughout the emergency, calling their response a reflection of Rotary’s mission to promote peace, save lives, and support communities in times of need.
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