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The Awards & Recognition Committee of the U.S. Council of the International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM-USA) has selected Joseph Leonard Jr. for the IAEM-USA 2025 Uniformed Services Auxiliary Emergency Manager Award. The award will be presented at the 73rd IAEM Annual Conference & EMEX in Louisville, Kentucky.

IAEM-USA Uniformed Services Auxiliary Emergency Manager Award Recipient Joseph J. Leonard, Jr., CEM

Joseph J. Leonard, Jr. has made exceptional contributions to emergency management as a U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla commander and a nationally respected leader in homeland security and disaster response. His efforts have strengthened interagency coordination, improved joint training, and advanced regional capacity across federal, state, local, tribal, and private sectors. Under his guidance, Flotilla 6-12 became the Auxiliary’s premier “Emergency Management Flotilla,” delivering ICS/NIMS-aligned training consistent with FEMA and Coast Guard standards. He led multi-agency exercises that unified public safety officials, state responders, and Auxiliary personnel.

His emergency management work spans operational, strategic, and educational areas, characterized by technical skill, visionary leadership, and a lasting impact. He has consistently elevated standards in interoperability, information sharing, and capacity building. His advocacy for professional credentials—including the Military Emergency Management Specialist (MEMS) and the Coast Guard Emergency Management Credential — enhanced training standards and motivated many members to pursue FEMA ICS qualifications and IAEM certifications.

Most notably, he spearheaded a credentialing initiative in IAEM Region 6 that resulted in over 60 emergency managers achieving or advancing toward CEM or AEM status within a year, significantly boosting regional preparedness and addressing critical gaps in continuity planning and logistics coordination. His career exemplifies leadership in uniformed volunteer service and serves as a model across the Coast Guard Auxiliary, IAEM, and the broader homeland security enterprise. Through ongoing mentorship, initiative, and commitment to mission success, Auxiliarist Leonard has not only met but exceeded the criteria for this distinguished honor.

The Uniformed Services Auxiliary Emergency Manager Award recognizes a Uniformed Services Auxiliary member for outstanding contributions to the field of emergency management.

For an official copy of this press release, please contact Dawn Shiley, CAE.

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