Eight Minto firefighters were recognized with awards for varying lengths of service at the third annual Minto Fire awards dinner at the community centre here on May 1.
Thanking firefighters for being part of “the great team that we have,” Fire Chief Chris Harrow told the gathering that through his participation in the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs (OAFC) he has found the local department is widely respected.
“In all the travels that I’ve done across the province with the association at different events you guys have to know … Your name as Minto Fire is out there and people respect the work that you do and love what you guys do,” said Harrow.
Perth Wellington MP John Nater said, “You’re all part of the community. You’re all in jobs outside of the fire department as well, so I just want to say thank you for all you do.”
Perth-Wellington MPP Randy Pettapiece said, “Certainly we respect and we honour all first responders in Wellington County and certainly throughout Ontario for the work you do.
“Thanks so much for your service.”
Minto Mayor George Bridge pointed out Harrow “doesn’t take a lot of accolades,” but in addition to his role with the local fire service, he brings a volunteer perspective to his role with the OAFC, which includes many departments consisting of full-time firefighters.
“I hear a lot about Minto Fire and the good work he does in the fire chiefs organization and it’s so important that he’s there,” said Bridge.
Bridge told firefighters the local council appreciates their efforts.
“We really support you as best we can. We have the best fire department in, I think, all of Ontario and maybe Canada,” said the mayor.
Bridge commended the firefighters for taking the initiative to obtain training and equipment in order to add water rescue capability to the department’s services, a capacity utilized for the first time during a major flood in Harriston last June.
“You went out and got yourself qualified to be a water rescue team and we saw what that did in a flood and we’re so appreciative of that and it was all done by your own efforts,” stated Bridge.
“You went and you raised the money to do this stuff. We can’t, as a council, say enough about you.”
