Excerpts from suburbanchicagoland.com:
The Orland Fire Protection District dedicated the “Robert M. Buhs Education & Leadership Development Center” on July 15, 2022 in honor of a former fire chief who officials said was the district’s chief architect.
The Orland Fire Protection District (OFPD) Board of Trustees created the rank of “Fire Chief Emeritus” in recognition of the contributions Buhs made during his 27 years of service.
In ceremony filled with emotion, Buhs was presented with the newly created rank to reflect his role in building the Orland Fire Protection District. A naming plaque was unveiled at the “Buhs Education & Leadership Development Center” located at 10728 W. 163rd Place.
Buhs started his full time career in Orland in 1977. He was promoted to lieutenant in 1981, to deputy chief in 1986, and was first appointed Chief/Administrator in 1988. One of Buhs’ earliest visions was to build a regional training facility. He was one of the first to start training officers and command functions knowing the importance of the unified command. He retired in 2003.
Chief Buhs also served as Executive Director of the Illinois Fire Chiefs Association from 1988 until 1999 but continued as a consultant and mentor to many chiefs that have served since that time.
Today, the Orland Fire Protection District is recognized as having a 65 percent save rate for individuals who suffer heart attacks. The national save rate is only 10 to 15 percent. The OFPD is Certified with ISO-1 rating and as an Internationally Accredited Fire Department, one of only 100 in the United States and Canada.
thanks Martin
