King's Fire Service Medal recipients

Both recipients – with around 70 years of service between them - have shown their dedication to public safety throughout their careers.

Watch Commander Ian Nicolson from the Isle of Skye (on the right of the photo above) began his fire and rescue service career in 1987.

The 63-year-old joined Portree Community Fire Station and has become a deeply respected and well-known figure within the community spending time engaging with residents, landowners, and crofters.

Due to his location and years of experience, Ian has dealt with several large wildfires and his efforts have significantly enhanced public understanding of fire risks and strengthened community resilience.

He’s also assisted with Portree’s fundraising activities, leading and organising a number of charity events. He has selflessly dedicated countless hours of his own time to local and national causes.

On receiving the notification of King’s Fire Service Medal (KFSM), Ian said: “I didn’t think it was real at first, but as I read on and realised it was genuine, I couldn’t believe it.

“This award is not about me, it’s about everyone who has assisted me over the years.  My family, my colleagues, past and present have all supported me to reach this point in my career and I would like to thank them all.

“It’s incredibly humbling because I’m just a wee boy from Skye – it’s an honour and a privilege to receive this medal.

“This medal is not just for me but for the whole of Skye, Raasay and our community.”

The second recipient of the KFSM is Area Commander Chris Getty, a dedicated fire safety professional.

Chris, who retired earlier this year, dedicated almost 30 years of service to protecting communities across Scotland.

Born and raised in East Dunbartonshire, Chris grew up in Bearsden before moving to Kirkintilloch. He joined the Service in 1997 and progressed through the ranks.

Throughout his career, Chris played a significant role in shaping fire safety policy both in Scotland and across the UK. His contributions included leading work on the National Competency Framework for Protection Officers, helping develop Scottish Government sector-specific fire safety guidance, and strengthening partnerships through a range of national agreements.

Chris has described the honour as a source of immense pride, particularly as a lasting legacy that can be shared with his family for future generations.

He said: “To be recognised with the King’s Fire Service Medal is a tremendous privilege and honour, and one for which I am incredibly proud and grateful.

“I have been fortunate to spend my career serving our communities and businesses in a job that I have genuinely loved.

“While this recognition is awarded to me, it reflects the collective efforts of the many colleagues, teams and partners I have had the privilege of working alongside to educate people and reduce the risk of fire.

“I hope this recognition demonstrates that the passion, commitment and professionalism shown by so many across the Service does not go unnoticed. Together, we will continue striving to keep people safe.”