Ron Gill Named New Director Of Homeland Security
Veteran First Responder Takes Leadership Of County’s Public Safety Department
In a unanimous vote of confidence (11- 0), the Prince George’s County Council confirmed Mr. Ronald Gill to head the Prince Georges County Department of Homeland Security April 21.
“I’m humbled and honored to be the fourth director of PGC Homeland security,” said Mr. Gill. “I give thanks to God for all my trials and tribulations and ups and downs that prepared me for this position. I thank County Executive Alsobrooks, her staff, the County Council for all their support.”
Prince Georges County Council Chairman Calvin Hawkins expressed great support for Gill, citing the career firefighter’s long-standing stellar reputation in the county.
Gill, a lifelong resident of Prince George’s, grew up in Palmer Park. He is a career firefighter and first responder who joined the Kentland Fire Department at age 17. He has served as the Director of Emergency Management since September 29, 2011. Gill served with the District of Columbia Fire & Emergency Medical Services Department since April 1986.
An outpouring of respect and confidence was consistent among County leaders since Gill’s name was selected from the office of the County Executive.
Kentland Fire Department At Work.
In spite of suffering a stroke in recent years, Gill assured family members (even at the beginning of the personal crisis) that all would be well. Through rehabilitation and personal commitment, Gill fought through the challenge and came back to full-time duty. Gill’s sister, Robyn Bright, said at his confirmation that he “never wavered in his faith.”
The new homeland security director humbly assured those in attendance, “I may not be the smartest but I will not be outworked.”
The career first responder listed a number of key points that he will address:
*Next generation of the 9-1-1 system
*Battling emerging threats
*Increasing diversity
*Enhancing intelligence, data and information sharing with other agencies across the region
Said Jim Estepp, President and CEO of the Greater Prince George’s Business Roundtable and himself a former Prince George’s County Fire Department Chief: “Ronnie Gill is the consummate professional with years of dedicated public safety service here and in the District of Columbia. I've worked with him on Executive Transition Teams and observed his many talents over the years. Our residents can feel secure that he will serve as part of an elite team of leaders dedicated to protecting our county.”
