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.
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.