Two London Fire Brigade staff members have been recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours List 2025 for their outstanding contribution to the fire and rescue sector.
Assistant Commissioner for Operational Resilience and Control, Patrick Goulbourne, has been awarded the King’s Fire Service Medal (KFSM) in recognition of nearly three decades of distinguished service and exceptional leadership in operational resilience. Dawne Stephenson, Professional Standards Manager, has been awarded an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) for her long-standing commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion within the Brigade.
Assistant Commissioner Goulbourne currently leads the Brigade’s operational resilience, control, and mobilisation functions. He also chairs the Brigade’s Equality Support Groups and serves as the National Fire Chiefs Council’s Counter Terrorism National Coordinator, overseeing the UK’s National Inter-Agency Liaison Officer (NILO) programme. Throughout his career, he has played critical command roles in some of the UK’s most significant incidents, including the 2017 London terrorist attacks, the Grenfell Tower fire, and Operation London Bridge following the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
Assistant Commissioner Goulbourne said: “It is an incredible honour to receive the King’s Fire Service Medal. I’ve been privileged to serve alongside so many dedicated people who put the public first every single day. This award reflects their efforts and shared commitment to keeping London’s communities safe.”
With over 40 years of service, Dawne has been a driving force behind organisational development and positive change within the Brigade. Through her commitment to staff engagement and collaborative leadership, she is working to cultivate a diverse workforce where everyone feels valued and supported.
Speaking on her award, Dawne said: “To be recognised in this way is a real honour. I’ve always believed in the power of inclusive leadership and the importance of representation. This reflects not just my journey, but the progress we’ve made, and are continuing to make, together to build a more inclusive fire service.”
London Fire Commissioner Andy Roe said: “Dawne and Patrick embody the best of what London Fire Brigade stands for. They’ve made a real, lasting difference across the whole fire and rescue sector, by driving cultural change and leading inclusively.
“I’m genuinely proud to see their hard work and dedication recognised at this level. Congratulations to them both.”
The full King’s Birthday Honours List celebrates individuals across the UK for their exceptional service and achievements in communities, organisations, and public life.