BY MATT MACKINDER
Clarkston News Editor

Last month, Dave Bridgewater was chosen as the Independence Township Firefighter of the Year.
Ever the humble individual, though, Bridgewater said the award was more of a department honor than a personal one.
“I was very honored to receive the Firefighter of the Year award,” said Bridgewater. “I feel my recognition was likely due to the professional firefighters I work with. They represent our department with a high level of skills, dedication, and compassion, which makes me look good.”
Bridgewater received his award February 19 at American Legion Chief Pontiac Post 377, located in Clarkston.
Independence Township Fire Chief Dave Piche spoke of Bridgewater’s passion for the department.
“John Quincy Adams once said, ‘If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader,’” said Piche. “Dave Bridgewater is that kind of leader. Throughout his career, starting with private EMS and moving into professional fire service with Independence Township Fire in 2002, he has become a master of his craft.  His professionalism and kindness are known to put patients at ease, while his knowledge and skills are consistently trusted and mirrored by those in the department. He has shared these abilities through his service in the Oakland County Tech Team, as a SWAT medic for the Oakland County Sheriff’s Department, and a variety of other service positions.
“Within the department, he is always willing to sit with anyone needing guidance. His approachable demeanor and ability to truly listen have helped many people work through personal and professional struggles. He mentors in a way that encourages improvement and upholds necessary department expectations.  These traits and his influence in the department have helped make it the respected force it is and earned him the rank of operations captain.”
Piche went on to say Bridgewater is a great person away from the department’s professional life, too, and is simply a joy to be around.
“Dave’s happy, fun-loving character and devotion to any task can be seen in his personal life, as well,” said Piche. “He is an avid hunter and fisherman, sports he shares with his wife and son. His trophy mount-filled walls are a tribute to the many expeditions he has went on throughout his life. He is always up for a trip out with guys from the department, even though they will break and lose his tackle. Dave and his wife Kelly are well known for throwing their legendary department Christmas party each year. It is only one example of his recognition that cohesiveness and positive morale within the department are invaluable.  Their generosity has led to stronger brotherhood bonds within the force and within the department’s families.
“Dave has proven his leadership skills, strong character, and professionalism repeatedly throughout his 30 years on the job. He is well respected and has left a positive impact on all that have worked with him. His recognition is well deserved.”
Prior to joining the staff in Independence Township, Bridgewater worked on a private ambulance for 14 years, working from Detroit to Flint, with the bulk of his time all over Oakland County.
“It was that diverse exposure to all these communities and fire departments which led me to pursue a career here in Independence,” Bridgewater said. “This community has a great fire department, a perfect blend of a small-town feel with an up-to-date infrastructure, and we have tremendous community support, which means more than you may know.”