Combined, their dedication translates to about 285 years in service of the Municipality of Port Hope and keeping the community safe, attendees of a recent council meeting heard, as 17 volunteer firefighters — and several of their companions who received companion pins — were honoured and recognized for their devotion and sacrifices.
As Port Hope council met for its latest October meeting, it was a full council chambers as the community, council, staff, including Port Hope Fire and Emergency Services (PHFES) leaders, and other dignitaries gathered for the annual Volunteer Firefighter Long-Service Recognition ceremony traditionally held at Port Hope Town Hall.
“I’m very honoured to be able to recognize the dedication and sacrifices that these men and women have made throughout the years to answer the call of duty when needed,” said Jason Williams, director of protective services, who helped kick off the ceremony, which involved presentations of certificates and medals with municipal, provincial and federal recognition.
Williams’ words were met with a roaring round of applause from the gallery.
“Courageous, brave, and selfless are just some of the words I would use to describe our members,” said Williams. “And I’d like to thank you all — each and every one of you — for what you do every day.”
The ceremony recognized members for their service starting at five years and through to 45 years in the case of retired district Chief Glenn Case — “a feat that not too many have done,” noted fire Chief Jeff Ogden, while offering congratulations.
The recognition service/awards ceremony is meant to honour PHFES’ members for their unwavering dedication and contributions over the years. Awards include municipal, provincial and federal service medals and certificates.
In addition to other fire leaders, such as Port Hope’s deputy chiefs, council and a representative from Northumberland-Peterborough South MP Philip Lawrence’s office also took part in the ceremony.
Williams said the 17 firefighters’ service combined translates to a total of 285 years.
The following PHFES members were honoured:
5 YEAR MUNICIPAL FIRE SERVICE
Firefighters Scott Carreira, Kris Fairservice and Nicholas Marcuz.
10 YEAR MUNICIPAL FIRE SERVICE
Capt. Ben McBride, Lt. Kyle Bryans and firefighters Derek Dennee and Keegan Mitchell.
15 YEAR MUNICIPAL FIRE SERVICE
Capt. Mark Lent.
20 YEAR FEDERAL FIRE SERVICES EXEMPLARY SERVICE MEDIAL AND 20 YEAR MUNICIPAL FIRE SERVICE
Firefighters Mark Chard and Roger Palmer, as well as retired firefighter David Lent.
25 YEAR PROVINCIAL LONG-SERVICE MEDIAL AND 25 YEAR MUNICIPAL FIRE SERVICE
District Chief Brad Goodwin, station Capt. Bob Cranley, station Capt. Jamie Ferguson, and Capt. Phil Cranston.
45 YEAR PROVINCIAL LONG-SERVICE BAR
Retired district Chief Glenn Case.
Note: One name was not published per the individual’s request.