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Community heroes retire in Ucluelet

Firefighters Dave Ennis and Alan Anderson retire
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Ucluelet fire chief Rick Geddes and deputy chief Mark Fortune present veteran firefighter Dave Ennis with a special plaque to commemorate his many years of service to the volunteer brigade. (Mark Boysen photo)

Longtime Ucluelet volunteer firefighters Dave Ennis and Alan Anderson retired from the brigade this month.

The two community heroes were publicly honoured at the beginning of Ucluelet’s Dec. 15 regular council meeting.

Firefighter Ennis started with the Ucluelet Volunteer Fire Brigade in 1988. He was the longest standing member.

“Dave has been a staple. He’s one of those original people that showed up to a fire department with a lot of willingness to participate. I can only imagine what he has seen,” said mayor Mayco Noel. “We appreciate everything that you’ve done over the years.”

Captain Alan Anderson has been with the brigade for the last 10 years. He retires as a training officer.

“I don’t think we will ever duplicate your [skills],” said Noel. “You are going to missed. Not just in the hall, but in a lot of societies you participate in.”

Holding a his retirement token, Firefighter Al Anderson is flanked by Ucluelet fire chief Rick Geddes and deputy chief Mark Fortune. (Mark Boysen photo)

Fire chief Rick Geddes was also presented the Governor General of Canada Fire Services Exemplary Service Medal.

“On behalf of the membership of the UVFB and by extension the District of Ucluelet it is a great honour to virtually present this medal to chief Geddes. It is well deserved,” noted deputy chief Mark Fortune.

Geddes thanked his colleague.

“It’s much appreciated. But we are here today to more celebrate the members. But it is appreciated, the support,” said Geddes.

Councillor and community paramedic Rachelle Cole thanked the brigade for all their hard work.

“I have a unique opportunity to interact with the fire department on a regular basis. Throughout my days on the service, I’ve heard on several occasions, when it comes to firefighting, I think more so in the volunteer service than in big cities, that courageous isn’t what you do day-in and day-out, but what you are willing to do at any given moment. And that’s how it is around here. I’m always happy and comfortable on scene. Thank you for all you do,” said Cole.

Fire Rescue Service Awards were also presented to Scott Reed (five years), Evan Hauser (five years), Paul Galloway (10 years), and John Millar (25 years).