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AURORA – A Waubonsie Valley annual tradition continued on Tuesday night, as the Distinguished Alumni award was presented to City of Aurora Fire Chief Gary Krienitz.
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The 1990 graduate is the 22nd recipient of the award, a tradition that dates back to 1997.
Krienitz, a veteran of the Aurora Fire Department for over 20 years, told the Beacon News back in 2016, “When I was in high school at Waubonsie Valley, a friend gave me an opportunity to ride with Medic 4 at Fire Station 4. Little did I know that brief ride-along would have such an impact on who I would become.” Krienitz was sworn in as the Fire Chief in 2016. Before that, Krienitz served as a captain, lieutenant and paramedic.
Krienitz was on the wrestling, baseball and golf teams during his time at Waubonsie.
For a list of the school’s Distinguished Alumni, click here.