A special milestone achievement of a devoted Sundre firefighter was recognized during the recent Fireman's Ball. The annual event, which is held at the Sundre Legion, honours the efforts of volunteers who commit themselves to serving the community.
A special milestone achievement of a devoted Sundre firefighter was recognized during the recent Fireman's Ball.
The annual event, which is held at the Sundre Legion, honours the efforts of volunteers who commit themselves to serving the community.
Members are recognized for the number of years they have dedicated to the department. There are usually a few awards presented for five or even 10 years of service and this year was no different. But this year was also marked by fire Chief Marty Butts' three decades of involvement, which started at the junior firefighter level when he was still in high school.
"It's good to see the support of everybody coming here tonight. It kind of keeps us going a bit," he said, adding the occasional pat on the back from residents "goes a long ways…we sure appreciate it."
Such support, which even includes members of the public dropping by the hall with treats during Wednesday night training sessions, provides crucial motivation for the volunteers, he said.
"We sure don't do it for the pay!" said the chief, eliciting laughter from the crowd.
Maintaining a roster of more than 30 members is a substantial achievement during a time when people are struggling more and more to find the time to volunteer, he said.
"Some of the stuff we have to train for and do and see, it's crazy. It's a big commitment."
He went on to express his gratitude to the shared sacrifice made by the significant others of volunteer members, to loud applause and cheering.
"They put up with a lot of stuff. When we come home from those bad calls, they're our shoulder to lean on, and it means a lot to have that person there beside you."
Also sharing some thoughts was Linda Nelson, the Town of Sundre's chief administrative officer, who recited the firefighter's prayer. She also expressed gratitude for their bravery and courage as well as the peace of mind they provide the community.
Kevin Gamble, deputy fire chief, who has served for 24 years, and the Sundre RCMP detachment's Sgt. Jim Lank also offered some thoughts.
"All of the firefighters are always 100 per cent in the game, totally dedicated to their duties and totally professional," said Lank, who expressed appreciation for their efforts on behalf of his whole department.
Gamble recounted the numerous courses and training sessions completed by Butts throughout the chief's 30-year career, as well as the several competitions such as vehicle extrications that he got the department involved with.
"It made us proud. All of these things have made Marty — and the rest of us — the firefighters we are today," he said.
"To be a volunteer for 30 years, he has seen and done so much for this department and community," he said, fighting back a surge of emotion.
"I'm here to say, thanks Marty," the deputy chief managed to finish with a roar of applause.
Following the presentation of awards, which included firefighter Kurtis Doyle offering Butts a golden axe, was a social dance. Providing safe drives home were Grade 8 students raising funds for the west coast sailing trip.
