American Legion Outstanding Firefighter solves problems, does research

LINO LAKES — The American Legion Department of Minnesota’s 2024 Outstanding Firefighter is known for his problem-solving skills.

Lt. Brian Gustafson is a firefighter and emergency medical technician at Lino Lakes Fire Station 1. He has been a paid, on-call firefighter with the Lino Lakes Public Safety Department since December 2017. He previously served 6 1/2 years with the Centennial Fire District.

When the department has a need, he is the first to share his ideas and step up to the plate, such as covering additional calls for service, which allows greater time for administrative work. He mentors new firefighters and is in charge of the onboarding process. He leads the Fire Division’s monthly fire and EMS training.

He developed the apparatus specifications for the city’s two new fire engines. It was a process that involved several meetings and ample research.

His nomination was sponsored by Lino Lakes Post 566. He was chosen for recognition by the Department of Minnesota’s Law and Order Committee of Pat Logan, Jeff Brokaw and Susan Edwards.

Gustafson has a bachelor’s degree in business management and currently works in project sales for Viking Electric. He has been married for 15 years, with two boys, ages 6 and 11. He and his family live in Lino Lakes. He attended the Anoka County Fire Protection Academy and has obtained Firefighter I and II certification, along with certification for hazardous materials and EMT. He, too, will be at the Department Convention.