2025

2025 Leadership Award

Lt. Deon Baker

This year’s recipient of the Quincy Fire Department’s Leadership Award began his career with the department on July 7, 2007. He was promoted to Lieutenant on August 1, 2023, and then to Captain on June 1, 2025. 

Captain Baker has obtained all the required certifications, along with specialty certifications in the technical rescue discipline. He has also earned his Fire Officer I certification and is currently working toward achieving the Advanced Fire Officer certification.

Deon consistently demonstrates leadership characterized by levelheadedness and common sense. When he brings an idea or suggestion forward, we know he has thoroughly considered the pros and cons before discussing it. As the Captain on Shift 1 and as President of Local 63, he leads with purpose and intent—always putting the needs of his crew, his shift, and the department first.

Since nearly the inception of the program, Captain Baker has been a constant influence on the Western Illinois University Basic Operations Firefighter practicum. He devotes countless hours to supporting and improving the program throughout the year. He and his team of instructors continually strive to enhance the experience for students, helping them gain confidence and competence in their firefighting skills. It is with great pride that I present Captain Deon Baker with the Quincy Fire Department’s 2025 Leadership Award. Congratulations, Captain Baker.