William Session: YPG Garrison Employee of The Year
The U.S. Army Yuma Proving Ground (YPG) Fire Department responds to emergencies on the installation as well as the outlying areas including Hidden Shores, Martinez Lake and Highway 95.
The team is made up of skilled fire fighters, emergency medical technicians and paramedics — William Session is one of those team members. He was recently named the U.S. Army YPG Garrison Civilian of the Year.
“It was very humbling and surprising,” commented Session of the honor. “It’s a prestigious award and I am appreciative.”
This is not the only time Session has been recognized, most recently he was named employee of the Garrison first quarter in 2021. The citation notes his work at YPG, and the volunteer work he performs with national charities. One of those charities is the National Fallen Fire Fighter’s Foundation, he’s one of five Arizona state representatives who travel around the state spreading awareness.
He has also had his hand in organizing the yearly Patriot’s 5k Run and bringing the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb in honor of the New York Fire Fighters who lost their lives during the terrorist attacks, to YPG. Thanks to that initiative, fire fighters from YPG no longer have to travel out of town to participate in the climb.
“It made it easier because we could support the 5k run and do our own event here while honoring the members of the NYFD,” He added. “It’s been a success.”
Session came to YPG in 2005 after serving in the Air Force. While here he’s pushed himself to grow with the educational opportunities within the organization and outside.
He attended the Civilian Education System Basic Leadership course in 2019 which inspired him to earn his Master’s in Public Safety and Leadership and Executive Fire Administrative. Session is enrolled in the National Fire Academy Managing Officer Program through the Federal Emergency Management Agency better known as FEMA.
He’s had unique opportunities like sitting on the committee for the National Fire Prevention Association which set the standard for fire safety nationwide and participated in a twoyear detail in Italy when first starting his career at YPG.
Session couldn’t be happier with his journey as a fire fighter and employee at the proving ground.
“YPG is really unique. Our history is cool. We came from building bridges for the war effort in Africa to where we progressed now is just really cool and I’m glad I am part of it.”