Firefighters were presented long service and special awards this week at Government House.
On Tuesday (October 14) evening, Sir John welcomed everyone to what is always, an enjoyable family occasion.
The first presentations were four Illuminated Addresses given to three former Retained Firefighters and one former Station Officer.
It was noted that one of the recipients, Former Retained Firefighter Cliodhna Swales is still the longest serving female firefighter on the island.
Service Awards
Deputy Chief Fire Officer John Murtagh then read out short biographies of those receiving Long Service and Good Conduct Awards to those with 20 years, or more, service.
This was followed by the presentation of Long Service and Good Conduct clasps to two recipients who have over 30 years in the Service, one of whom was CFO Christian, the other was Station Officer Chris Blatcher.
There then followed the presentation of some special awards, where The Spirit of the Service Award was given to Station Officer Murray Halsall.
The next award was Fundraising Initiative of the year, presented to Sub Officer Nicholas Hays, who took on the Parish Walk in full kit.
Exemplary Work
The Fire Crew of the Year Award was given to Ramsey Station, for their proactive, yet sensitive handling of a tragic incident, which was noted even by the other Services involved.
Temporary Assistant Divisional Officer Steven Quayle was the well deserving recipient of the Project of the Year Award, for his exemplary work on contaminants.
The final award went to Mr John Smith, the True Unsung Hero Award.
Government House said: “As an example of his dedication, Mr Smith arrived late for the ceremony, as he had been called out on a job! However, he arrived just in time for His Excellency to congratulate him and make the presentation.”
The evening finished with His Excellency echoing the CFO’s words, by thanking all the brave firefighters for their service, but also he again thanked their families.
