MIMINEGASH
Prince Edward Island Lieutenant Governor Antoinette Perry extended a special wish to members of the Miminegash Fire Department during a special awards presentation Saturday.
May you always feel a sense of fulfillment and personal pride as you continue to carry out your important service, affording a special piece of mind to all of us. May safety be your constant companion in every one of your calls,” expressed Lt. Gov. Perry.
Four firefighters, Edward Butler, Ronald Butler, Stevie Gallant and Chief Wayne Gallant, received medals for 40 years of service and others received medals for service ranging from five to 30 years.
During her remarks Lt Gov. Perry also recognized the spouses, partners and families of firefighters for their continued support and encouragement and for “holding down the fort,” while the firefighters carry out their responsibilities.
“I speak for all the members of the Miminegash Fire Department when I say, I think it takes an extra special person to be a spouse of a first responder,” said Deputy chief Rob Tremblay before he and Chief Wayne Gallant presented each of the spouses and partners with a rose as an expression of thanks.
“When you made your decision to become a volunteer firefighter, you made a commitment to become a member of an important team in your community,” Perry addressed the department members. “You accepted to provide service in often difficult, risky and critical situations, often putting yourself in harm’s way.”
She also reminded them they must also take care of themselves, urging them to seek the support they need if they ever find themselves becoming overwhelmed.
“No matter what community we call home, we find very caring, dedicated and generous people who care so much about their community that they feel that great need to be actively involved in it,” Lt. Gov Perry said. ‘Firefighters, you are those people. You make a difference. You make the significant difference in the lives of every resident in your community.”