Centre Wellington recently honoured some of its long-serving volunteer firefighters on March 29.
“It’s great to see all the brass here in the gallery. I think we have most of the Centre Wellington fire department here tonight so it is an exciting night to recognize some great firefighters,” said Mayor Kelly Linton.
Federal Fire Service Exemplary Service Medals
– Firefighter Sean McKillop (20 Years),
– Firefighter Ronald Cousins (30 Years)
Provincial Long Service Medals
– Firefighter Terry Heseltine (25 Years)
– Firefighter Ronald Cousins (30 Years)
– Firefighter Michael Landoni (35 Years)
Also assisting with the service was Wellington-Halton Hills MPP Ted Arnott.
“I’m proud not only to be here to represent the Ontario Legislature, but also my colleague (Wellington-Halton Hills MP) Michael Chong who also sent greetings,” said Arnott.
Though McKillop was unable to attend the ceremony, Centre Wellington Fire Chief Brad Patton commented McKillop started his career on March 20, 1995 with the Elora Fire Department. McKillop will be presented his 20 year federal medal at a later date.
Next up was Terry Heseltine who started his career on Oct. 1, 1990 with the Elora fire department.
Heseltine was presented with his 25-year provincial long service medal as well as recognition from the federal government and the Ontario Fire Marshal’s office.
Cousins began his career on July 1, 1985 with the Elora Fire Department.
Cousins received his 30 year federal medal and provincial service bars.
Arnott noted, “Thirty years of service is an extraordinary expression of courage and devotion to your community and we are greatly indebted to all our firefighters.”
Landoni began his career on June 24, 1980 with the Fergus Fire Department.
In recognition of his service, he was presented his 35-year bars.
Linton also used the opportunity to thank firefighters for all the work during the recent Easter weekend ice storm.
“All of us are very pleased to have such a great fire department here to look after us and make sure we are safe in this community,” said Linton.
