New Volunteer Recruits Praised For Community Commitment At Graduation Ceremony

Four of the new volunteer members will be going to Station 65 in Tantallon. Above, Station Chief John Cunningham poses with the new members of his crew. From left are Terrence Davidson, Daniel Chevarie, Christopher Black, Wesley Strome and Chief Cunningham.

Chief Director Doug Trussler had both praise and commendation for the 32 new volunteer members who turned in their black training helmets for the yellow helmets, worn by certified firefighters, during a graduation ceremony May 24^th,  2012.

Volunteer firefighters have an enviable reputation for serving and protecting our municipality while asking for very little in return,” he said. Trussler also thanked the firefighters’ families for their support both during the long training process and on into the future. He noted the personal sacrifice from both the firefighters and their families each time the pager goes off.

“It is a huge commitment that we sincerely appreciate,” he said, telling the new members they have chosen a very exciting and rewarding way to serve their communities.

Trussler quoted prolific American novelist and humanist Kurt Vonnegut who once called the fire truck “the most stirring symbol of man’s humanity to his fellow man.” He told the recruits that as members of our fire service, they are part of that symbol and must continue, every day, to strive to meet the high expectations that come with it.

New Members Reminded – Assistance a Phone Call Away

Most people have no idea the extent of sacrifice made by firefighters. It can leave many emotional scars. Firefighters are routinely exposed to high stress situations, from medical calls to car accidents. To assist emergency responders exposed to these incidents, there is a program called CISM, or Critical Incident Stress Management.

Paul MacKenzie, as coordinator of our Firefighters and Family Assistance Program (FFAP), also oversees our CISM program. He reminded the new recruits of the assistance provided by our department.

Paul MacKenzie, coordinator of our Firefighter and Family Assistance Program, speaking to the recruits.

“Most people don’t see a lot of trauma,” he said. “But you will, because we’re going to send you there.”

MacKenzie briefed the new recruits on our CISM peer referral agents. Most of these are fellow firefighters who have undergone special training. Agents are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

MacKenzie told the new members they should never be afraid to pick up the phone and call for assistance. The program is also available for the family members of firefighters.

Firefighter Stephanie Humphreys receives her new helmet from Chief Director Doug Trussler (left) and Assistant Deputy Director John Verrall. She is one of four new volunteers assigned to Station 45 in Fall River.

Volunteering To Protect You

June 7, 2012 – Thirty-two new volunteer firefighters graduate – praised for service to community.