Distinguished Service Recipient 1997.
William Southard spent 24 of his 36 years of fire service on the Yerington Fire Department. He managed the Yerington Fire Department and Mason Valley Fire Protection District as fire chief for 23 years. He established the Central Lyon County Fire Protection District in 1971 and the Yerigton Fire Department Cadet program. He was the Founding Director of the Nevada Fire Chief’s Association and a member of the Nevada state Firefighters’ Association. Mr. Southard was appointed to the Nevada State Firemen’s Training Advisory Committee by Governor Robert List and served for two terms. He participated in the establishment of the current Nevada State EMS system, as an instructor and legislative advocate. He promoted the establishment of the Nevada State Fire Marshal’s Office through legislative efforts. He secured grant funding for two fire stations and one public service building within Lyon County.