Mr. Allen served his community as a volunteer firefighter for 50 years, and was recognized at the dinner for his unwavering service.
He arrived to the dinner in a fire truck with the lights on, and after the awards he was taken home in the same style. It was a very touching ending for someone who spent a lifetime serving his community and the fire department.
“When you get a chance to celebrate with someone who has given 50 years of service, I had to be here,” said Judy Foote, MP for Random-Burin-St. George’s.
Ms. Foote presented a very shy and humble Mr. Allen with an award from the federal government in recognition of explementary service with the Port aux Basques Fire Department.
Mayor Brian Button was on hand to recognize Mr. Allen and to present him with an award and a gift on behalf of the town.
“Mr. Allen has been fighting fires longer than I have been alive,” said Mayor Button.
The mayor thanked him for the many years of service, along with the other retirees as well.
“Not everybody does 50 years,” said Mayor Button, “You certainly deserve the retirement.”
He was presented with a gift on behalf of the town of Port aux Basques.
Mr. Allen was asked to open the gift on behalf of all his other fellow firefighters. He had tears in his eyes as he looked at the watch the town had given him.
Fire Chief Jerry Musseau presented him with a service pin for his 50 years of service. He was also presented with a clock from the fire department.
There were also two other members who were given service pins: John Simms for 25 years of service and Hubert Allen for 10 years of service.
There were many other certificates given out for training that was given over the last year.
Burgeo-La-Poile MHA Andrew Parsons presented an award to Mr. Allen on behalf of the provincial government and showed his appreciation to the volunteer firefighters by letting them know what an honor and privilege it was to be there.
“Sometimes we do not fully realize the importance of what the firefighters do for our community,” said Mr. Parsons
All the firefighters were recognized for their hard work and dedication and service to the community
Chief Musseau also acknowledged the hard work of the ladies auxiliary for preparing such a wonderful meal.
