More than a dozen of Champlain Township’s veteran firefighters received special honours for their dedication and service over the years.
Township council held a special session September 14 for ceremony to celebrate the presentation of exemplary service awards from the federal government and provincial awards for long service to 14 members, both active and retired, of Champlain Township’s fire department.
« Thank you very much, » said Mayor Normand Riopel.
Fire Chief Ghislain Pigeon made special note of the “courage and dedication” of the firefighters honoured that evening and the sacrifices they and their families make for the community.
The Ontario Fire Marshall’s Office also provided council with a statement that was read out as part of the ceremony, highlighting the courage and dedication of the 14 firefighters honoured.
« Their unwavering dedication to duty has made your community a safer place to live, » stated the Fire Marshall’s Office. « They are true heroes and we are privileged to have them as part of your community. »
Receiving honours during the evening were: 20-year-veterans Patrick Bernier, Richard Sincennes, BenoÎt Larocque, Stéphane Pépin, Marc Brunet, Greg Lydiate, and Kevin Bernique; 30-year veterans Mark Henderson, Jeffrey Carkner, Eric Jaring, James Cowan, Louis Turcotte (now retired), and Michel Martin; 40-year veteran Ernest Roebuck, former captain for the Vankleek Hill fire station, now retired after 42 years service.
They each received their federal and provincial honours, along with a certificate from the Governor General, letters of congratulations from MP Francis Drouin, Mayor Riopel, and a letter of thanks for service to the community. Their spouses received flower bouquets in recognition of their emotional and psychological support to their partners who sometimes have to deal with dangerous situations for the protection of the community.
