Public Safety Employees of the Year

2021 EMPLOYEES OF THE YEAR

The O’Fallon Department of Public Safety would like to congratulate the 2021 employees of the year.  These individuals have set themselves apart from their peers by consistently performing at a high level this past year.  Their dedication to public safety and the community of O’Fallon is commendable. 

Firefighter of the year – Firefighter John Nichols 

Firefighter John Nichols was selected for his continued contributions to the department and the fire service.  Firefighter Nichols was one of the first four part-time firefighters hired to support OFR’s Day Shift and today serves as the lead trainer for all Day Shift personnel.  In addition, John is routinely tasked with special projects that go beyond the day-to-day duties of day shift coverage.  John’s 30+ years of experience in the fire service have made him a key member of the department.

Civilian of the Year – Telecommunicator Lynde Hockaday  

Telecommunicator Hockaday is, and has been, an asset to MECOMM since being hired in 2018.  Lynde has been instrumental in ensuring LEADS compliance and quality control.  As a Certified Training Officer, she has made it her mission to learn as much as possible, sharing her knowledge with trainees to ensure their success.  She also participates in outside assignments and department volunteer activities.  Her passion is to be successful, help those on her team, and make MECOMM the best it can be. 

Emergency Medical Services Employee of the Year – Paramedic Marty Nungesser 

Paramedic Nungesser has been with O’Fallon EMS since 2001.  He is a crew leader and has been EMS employee of the year four times.  Paramedic Nungesser always places patient wellbeing at the forefront of his treatments and maintains a level of empathy that is truly valued in pre-hospital care.  In addition to being one of our most caring paramedics, he is instrumental in keeping our fleet operational.  Marty is committed to our department's mission and always represents our service in the highest professional manner.

Police Officer of the Year – Officer Chris Gottschall

Officer Gottschall has been with the police department since 2014.  He has taken leadership roles in the organization with an increased dedication to keeping our community safe through enforcement of impaired driving.   During 2021, Officer Gottschall performed at a high level while acting as a Field Training Officer, Firearms Instructor, and Departmental Armorer.  In addition to his duties with the O’Fallon Police Department, Ofc. Gottschall is a Reservist in the United Stated Air Force.  Ofc. Gottschall always maintains a positive attitude and continues to look for ways to increase his personal growth and development.

We are fortunate to have these dedicated public servants on our team.