WESTLOCK — Westlock County firefighters, their families and guests gathered to celebrate their service and dedication.
The annual firefighter’s appreciation night was held Dec. 3 at the Jarvie Community Centre and featured a supper, awards presentations, and entertainment as a way to say thank you to all the volunteer firefighters from Fawcett, Jarvie, Clyde, Pickardville and Busby.
County fire chief and manager of protective services John Biro noted it was the first appreciation night since the pandemic and despite slowing down during the COVID-19 years, they did keep up with regular training and practice for firefighters.
“I know everybody was very excited for this night because it’s been two years that we were able to get together,” said Biro. “We’re hoping that we can start bringing in some new recruits, we do have a lot of new faces that have started with our departments … we’ve got a good family here.”
Service awards recognizing five, 10 and 25 years of service were handed out —Meagan Smith received her five-year service award, Shaun Cormier received his 10-year service award and Dave van de Ligt, Chris Drezzick and David Kaliel received 25-year service awards, while Pickardville’s deputy chief Roberta Halliday was presented with the Glenn Latimer Memorial Community Service Award.
The Alberta Emergency Services Medal was also presented to three firefighters, a medal awarded for 12, 22, 32 or 40 years of service in emergency services sector in Alberta. Firefighter Mike Mielke received the medal for 12 years of service, while firefighters Perry Lumayko and Barry Nyal both received it for 22 years of service.
About 80 volunteer firefighters give their time at the five stations across Westlock County and typically attend 300 to 400 calls per year, noted Biro.
“It’s a lot of commitment of time away from their jobs and families. I don’t think the public really realizes how much it (takes) to be a volunteer firefighter — when a call comes in, they’re dedicated,” he said, noting they all look out for each other. “I know PTSD is a very big concern and has been… our departments take it seriously and we make sure our members know they’ve got support.”
One of those dedicated firefighters was Halliday who’s been in Pickardville for 14-and-a-half years and was humbled to receive such recognition.
“It’s really special. I’m in great company with some of the (previous recipients),” said Halliday, noting what she loves about being a firefighter. “You’re there to help people, you’re able to be there when they need somebody. We’re like a big family and we’re all there for each other and for our communities in Westlock County.”
