Gas fitter honored by MPD

From left, Chief Flynn, Baseler and Mayor Barrett.

Jim Baseler, one of our gas fitters, was honored with the Valorous Conduct Award from the Milwaukee Police Department (MPD). Baseler accepted the award from Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett and Milwaukee Police Chief Edward Flynn at an awards ceremony May 14.

The award stems from Baseler’s response to a gas leak at a Milwaukee apartment building in February. A resident reported a strong odor of natural gas. Baseler quickly realized what was wrong: a gas line to the building’s clothes dryer had been disconnected. Knowing that residents were in danger, Baseler immediately evacuated eight units. He shut off the gas and worked with Milwaukee police and firefighters to safely ventilate the building.

“Jim’s situational awareness and quick action kept the other tenants safe from tragedy,” said Dave Megna, our director of system operations.

“It was nice to be honored,” said Baseler, a 10-year veteran of the company. “I am humbled by my job every day. I’m happy to help.”