Mike Lashmet, a former chief and life member, was named the Defreestville Fire Department's February Member of the Month. Lashmet joined the department in 1992 and currently serves in a variety of roles, including driver training support, MAP participation, Constitution and Bylaws committee work, and Station Engineer for 2026. He also took on the role of Deputy Director of Purchasing last year.

Throughout his tenure, Lashmet has been recognized as Firefighter of the Year, Officer of the Year, and for his outstanding attendance. In 2025, he led the department with 263 calls while working regularly on duty crew shifts.