Brothers and Sisters,

It is my privelege to assume the role as Preisident of this Council.  Having taken over in August of 2011 from Tod Miler who resigned/retired.  I began my career in 1989 with the Scottsdale Az. Fire Department, worked a few summers with the Prescott HotShots, and was also the former President at L613 in Bozeman where I have worked since '95. In my spare time, I ride my horses, check my cattle, try to keep up with my daughter and a 3 legged dog. I am honored and humbled to serve the Council in this role, and look forward to strengthening our union through the participation of all.

Fraternally,
Joel Fassbinder
422 E Mendenhall
Bozeman, MT 59718

406-581-2325
jfassbinder@mscopff.org

A little about myself. Unfortunately I cannot claim myself as a native of Montana; I was transplanted here from California in June of 1992 with the United States Air Force. I was an active duty fire fighter with the Air Force from 1992 to 1995. Prior to my military stent I was a wild land fire fighter for Santa Barbara County Fire department from 1989 - 1991. I was married to my beautiful wife in June of 1990 and we are happily raising or four children (17 year old son, 10 year old son and 3 year old twins one boy and one girl).

On August 1, 1995 I began working for Great Falls Fire Rescue and was promoted to Captain in October of 2003. I attended my first convention of the Montana State Council of Professional Fire Fighters in 1996 and have not missed one since. I started my union career by being elected Vice President of Great Falls Fire Fighters IAFF Local # 8 in 1999 and then elected as President in 2003 which I currently still hold. In 2002 I began my career with the Montana State Council of Professional Fire Fighters as I was elected to the position of Secretary Treasurer.

I completely enjoy Montana, which I now call home, and truly enjoy serving all the members of the Montana State Council of Professional Fire Fighters. Please feel free to contact me with any questions regarding the State Council that you may have. STAY SAFE!!

Fraternally,

David J. van Son

I was born and raised in Lewistown, MT. I started my fire service career at the age of 16 ,in the Lewistown Fire Department, as a part-paid volunteer. In 1986, I joined the Air Force as a firefighter. In 1990, I was hired by Montana Air National Guard and served 2 years on the department. In 1992, I accepted a job with Missoula City Fire Department. I have served as a treasure/secretary, vice president, and now serve as the union president. I was elected as District VP #1 in 2004.