Greg DeLor

About Greg:

He and his wife, Pam, live in Crown Point, and have a son, Dirk.

Associate degree in electrical engineering from Purdue University.

Holds numerous certifications through the National Fire Protection Association, State of Indiana.

Employed by the City of Crown Point for 14 years.

Member of St. Mary Church in Crown Point.

Loves car shows.

Accomplishments: Greg DeLor is the new Crown Point fire chief. A full-time firefighter since 1994 who previously volunteered, he took office Jan. 2. He previously served as chief from January, 2001 to April, 2005, originally appointed during the Mayor James Metros administration. DeLor oversees the day-to-day operations of the fire and emergency medical divisions for the city and his job is both an administrative and managerial position. He is a National Fire Protection Association instructor at the Crown Point station and for other stations throughout Northwest Indiana, teaches Basic Firefighter I and II for Lake County Fire Chiefs Association and is a CPR instructor for public safety employees and the community. He recently taught a CPR class for eighth graders at St. Mary Catholic Community School and all students received certification. DeLor is ultimately responsible for the well being of the firefighters, currently 20 career firefighters and 35 volunteers, and making sure they

have the equipment and training to do their job. He takes great pride in serving the community. "This is something I really love to do," he said. "This is my second career, I spent 19 years working for a computer company and at that same time was a volunteer firefighter. I loved it that much that when an opening presented itself, I quit being an engineer, became a firefighter and have progressed through the ranks from firefighter, lieutenant, inspector and now chief." DeLor conducts CPR training for his parish and trains the staff once a year to use the AEDs located in the church and in the school. He is a member of the International Arson Investigation Association and National Association of Fire Investigators.

Personal heroes: "I look up to people with a strong work ethic, and people that are dedicated to family and their community."

What I read: "I read extensively. I like Clyde Cussler, (John) Patterson and a number of others"

Advice: "Always work hard and be honest with people. That will advance you well through life."

Best thing about my job: "Being able to help the community."

People might be surprised to know: "My son is a volunteer and part-time medic for Crown Point while he's attending law school, and my brother, Dave, is on the department with me here as a volunteer."

- SUE BERO, Times Correspondent

To nominate someone for this feature, e-mail slbero@hotmail.com.