Celebrating America Through Local Eyes

Steven Gaskill

Marco Island Fire Department

Steven Gaskill was raised in North Florida on a small family farm, which provided him with a solid foundation of skills working with his hands and taught him the gratification that comes from being self-reliant. After graduating from the University of Florida, he began his public service career with the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office before moving to Southwest Florida in 2012.

As a seventh-generation Floridian, Gaskill’s father had fond memories of Marco Island and encouraged him to pursue an opportunity with the Marco Island Police Department. He met his wife, Ali, while living in Naples, and together they experienced their first major hurricane, Irma. In 2019, Ali and Gaskill decided to make Marco Island their home and start their family.

Gaskill found a home with the Marco Island Fire Department, where Chief Murphy and the members of the department welcomed him as one of their own. He has been blessed to both live and serve in this incredible community surrounded by the beauty of the Ten Thousand Islands.

The Gaskill Gamily enjoys spending time at Residents’ Beach, participating in the many community events offered through the Parks and Recreation Department, and spending time with the friends they’ve made through pickleball. Gaskill’s son, Landon, loves going to the YMCA and has been fortunate to grow up surrounded by the wonderful families and community at Tommie Barfield Elementary.

“For me, being a Floridian is about more than where I live. It is about family, community, service, and carrying forward the values that were instilled in me growing up.”

What does “freedom” mean to you?

Freedom is one of the core foundations of being an American, made possible by the sacrifices of those who came before us. All Americans have been given this great privilege, along with the responsibility to protect that freedom for future generations. I was recently aboard the USS Midway with my family, where we were humbled by the memories and stories of the veterans who served our country to protect the freedoms we enjoy today.

What is one thing that makes you proud to be an American?

I’ve always been proud of my country and the opportunities we have as Americans. Our freedom of speech allows us to openly express our views and respectfully challenge opposing ideas without fear of government repercussions. Along with our other fundamental rights, freedom of speech gives us the ability to share new ideas, encourage innovation, and make our voices heard. Sometimes, simply having the freedom to speak up about even the smallest of transgressions gives us the opportunity to learn, improve, and move forward together.

If you would like to nominate a Veteran or local hero to be featured in Celebrating America Through Local Eyes, contact Brittany Richards at brittany@coastalbreezenews.com.