Pugwash Fire Celebrates Very Long Service
Two members of the Pugwash Fire Department (PFD) account for 90 years of service.
The PFD is just a little short of its 40 member allotment, but like the little engine that could, a few members make all the difference.
Bob Messenger and John Murray were honoured at the department’s annual Awards Banquet, each for 45 years of service. That’s a long time to commit to your community, but neither plans to quit anytime soon.
Their roles have changed over the years, but even today, they just want to serve.
Messenger is a former chief, while Murray has held numerous senior duties in the department.
Both were there in the formative years, and both took on whatever responsibilities were needed. The same is true today as their attendance to fire calls, meetings, and training remain exemplary.
Nathan McIver is the other extreme. The seventeen-year-old has already completed his Level One training, a goal of most firefighters. The Pugwash High student is still regarded as a Junior Firefighter, but he will leap forward on his eighteenth birthday to full status where he will be allowed to use his training in all scenarios, including what firefighters call the “hot zone.”
Kathy Betts is already a veteran of the fire service. She represents the modern service where men and women work side-by-side. She continues to train, yet she is also a trainer. One of her best memories in the PFD is a fire safety week event at Cyrus Eaton Elementary School from a few years ago. She entered the school gymnasium with her male colleagues and overheard one young pupil saying, “Look the fireman is a girl!”
Mark Robinson was honoured at the banquet with his selection as Firefighter of the Year. Robinson has been deeply committed to his own training, but always finds time to help guide and counsel others. He has also used his skills to update fire hall systems and safety protocols.
The attached photo shows John Murray receiving his 45-year award with L to R: Chief Andy Yarrow, Deputy Chief Ron Betts Jr., Deputy Chief Robert Carter, Cumberland North MLA Tory Rushton, John Murray, and Warden Al Gillis.
The photos below include L to R: Chief Andy Yarrow, Deputy Chief Ron Betts Jr., Deputy Chief Robert Carter, Cumberland North MLA Tory Rushton, Bob Messenger, and Warden Al Gillis.
L to R: Nathan McIver, Chief Andy Yarrow, Kathy Betts, and Mark Robinson.