Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) is proud to recognize and honor two outstanding individuals for their contributions to public safety and emergency management in Idaho. Director Brad Richy and Dave Moore were awarded the Idaho Distinguished Service Medal, the second-highest civilian award presented in Idaho.

Director Richy distinguished himself through more than a decade of exceptional service as the Director of IOEM, following a decorated military career with the Idaho Air National Guard. Under his leadership, IOEM became nationally recognized for its innovative practices and strong partnerships, all while advancing national emergency management policy.

During his 12-year tenure, Director Richy led Idaho through 26 federally declared disasters, resulting in 393 disaster projects and more than $260 million in Public Assistance funding. His guidance during 12 Fire Management Assistance Grants (FMAGs) also brought over $19 million in vital support to state and local response organizations.

Director Richy’s influence extended far beyond Idaho. He served as President of the National Emergency Management Association, a Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) National Advisory Council member, and on the National Governors Association Homeland Security Advisory Council. At the state level, At the state level, he was appointed by the Governor to serve as chair of the Idaho Public Safety Communications (IPSCC) and co-chair of the Wildfire Workgroup Emergency Response Committee, where he helped shape communications and wildfire response strategies statewide.

“Brad Richy has been steadfast in Idaho’s emergency management community, dedicating more than a decade to strengthening our state’s preparedness and response capabilities,” said Maj. Gen. Timothy Donnellan, the Adjutant General of the Idaho Military Division. “His leadership has contributed to a stronger and more resilient State of Idaho, IMD, IOEM, and the emergency management community at large.”

Moore’s contributions to Idaho’s public safety landscape span multiple decades and roles. He served as a Chubbuck police officer, Idaho National Laboratory Security Manager, Chief of Police in Blackfoot, and an adviser to Kazakhstan on nuclear security. Most recently, he served as Idaho’s 911 Grant Manager, helping to shape the future of emergency communications across the state.

Appointed by Governor Dirk Kempthorne as a founding member of the E911 Commission, Moore played a crucial role in expanding and modernizing Idaho’s emergency communication systems. Over the course of his career, he managed more than $31 million in grants that supported Enhanced 9-1-1 (E911) implementation in all 44 counties and laid the foundation for Next Generation 911 technology.

Appointed by Governor Dirk Kempthorne as a founding member of the E911 Commission, Moore played a pivotal role in modernizing Idaho’s emergency communication systems. He managed more than $31 million in grants, supporting the implementation of Enhanced 9-1-1 (E911) in all 44 counties and laying the foundation for Next Generation 911 technology.

Moore was also a passionate legislative advocate, supporting public safety initiatives through the Idaho Chiefs of Police Association and the Idaho Association of Cities. Recognizing his lasting impact, Governor Butch Otter appointed him to the Idaho Parole and Pardons Commission, where he served until 2020.

“Dave’s attention to detail and deep commitment to community safety earned him the respect of public safety professionals statewide,” said 911 Program Manager, Eric Newman. “His work has helped save lives by making sure our 911 systems are modern, reliable, and accessible.”

During the May 8 IPSCC meeting, Maj. Gen. Donellan presented Richy and Moore with their awards.

Congratulations Director Richy and Moore on this well-deserved honor and thank you for your outstanding contributions to Idaho!