The Merritt Fire Rescue Department recognized its members and their contributions to the community at an annual awards night and banquet on July 12.
Attendance awards and long term service awards were presented by Fire Chief Dave Tomkinson, Mayor Susan Roline, and Fire Prevention Officer Sky McKeown.
The 20-year exemplary service awards, issued on behalf of Governor General David Johnston, went to retired chief Gerald Garrett, Battalion Chiefs Darrell Finnigan and Jay Mosley, and Fire Chief Dave Tomkinson.
The provincial 25-year exemplary service award went to firefighter Bob Wilson, while Captain Felice Lucchi took the 15-year service award.
Tomkinson noted the firefighters showed admirable dedication to the department during its rocky start with a new crew.
“I don’t think many firefighters would’ve joined a fire department under the conditions that our 20-year recipients had,” Tomkinson said. “If we turn back the page a little bit, we had basically our fire department walk out and a lot of people walk in to keep it going. During those times, it was quite obvious that our community was divided on whether they could support the new firefighters.”
He said that when the new crew stepped up, the community support followed. It was a sentiment Coun. Harry Kroeker echoed.
“I’m sure I speak on behalf of all the citizens of our city when I congratulate you folks on the job you do so well,” Kroeker said.
“We’re proud of you, and we don’t know what we would do if we didn’t have people like you looking after our best interests.”
The evening’s final and most coveted award, the IMPRESS award, went to Debbie Tansca.
“To be eligible for this award, the member must understand the level of commitment and sacrifice each member is required to provide in ensuring the safety of our neighbours, while at the same time, realize that it is a privilege to be a firefighter and that we owe the public a service,” Tomkinson said. “What impresses us the most is her ability to balance a hectic personal life, which includes caring for the needs of her autistic grandson, while still finding time to make the department a priority. This award is one of MFRD’s highest honours.”
Tomkinson said the award is the department’s version of Firefighter of the Year.
Tansca also took the award for highest number of responses to auto extrication rescue calls, while best attendance to fire calls went to Brent Manning.
Firefighters who completed their probation received MFRD licence plates.
Rani Hothi won the award for best attendance at training sessions with over 100 per cent of the required sessions completed – by attending Monday training and optional Thursday courses.
Besides celebrating the successes of the department’s previous year, which include adding first responder services, Tomkinson looked ahead to what’s next for the department. A fire hall expansion is in the works, and he anticipates the rescue truck, which was damaged in a March accident that sent firefighter Bill Morton to hospital, will be replaced or fixed up. Coun. Mike Goetz said that accident brought the seriousness of firefighters’ jobs home for council and many Merrittonians. He and Tomkinson commended members of the fire department for pulling together to support Morton, as well as for their bravery in taking a risk when they leave for a call.
“It takes quite a bit of bravery to leave your spouse to go to something that’s unknown,” Tomkinson said.
City of Merritt Chief Administrative Officer Matt Noble said he was happy to see the city’s firefighters get recognition for their good work.
About 30 firefighters and their guests attended the event at the Civic Centre.
