Two very loyal and dedicated Hanover Firefighters are the recipients of the Ontario Fire Marshall and Emergency Management Awards of Service.
Deputy Fire Chief Craig MacArthur and Pump Operator Rick Hopkins exemplify what being a volunteer firefighter is all about.
With 55 years of combined experience they are the recent recipients of Long Standing Fire Service awards.
After three decades of service, MacArthur says firefighting has certainly changed over the years for the better thanks to better equipment, protocols and specialized training.
For Hopkins a 25-year firefighting veteran, firefighting has become a passion.
The 59-year old jokes that there are times when he really feels his age, but says the desire to continue serving as a firefighter is even greater.
Both Hopkins and MacArthur say they have no plans to leave anytime soon.
Fire Chief Jeff Dentinger is very pleased, noting that the two provide a wealth of experience and skill which is invaluable during emergency situations.
Dentinger hails MacArthur and Hopkins as exemplary individuals who have dedicated so much of their lives to the service of others.
He notes that they have gone above and beyond the call of duty, being on call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year for a combined total of 55 years.
Congratulations to Deputy Chief Craig MacArthur (left of Mayor Sue Paterson) for receiving his 30 year long service award. Thank you DC MacArthur for your service, it has been an honor and a privilege to serve with you. @HanoverFD @TownofHanover pic.twitter.com/etqHcgLC3t
— ChiefDentinger (@ChiefDentinger) December 17, 2019
Congratulations To Pump Operator Rick Hopkins (right of Mayor Sue Paterson) who received his 25 year long service medal. This medal signifies the dedication and commitment of Operator Hopkins as paid on-call firefighter for this community with @HanoverFD @TownofHanover pic.twitter.com/FGTrIXIKBo
— ChiefDentinger (@ChiefDentinger) December 17, 2019