Killam firefighters honoured

Fire Officer Don Roslund, from the Office of the Alberta Fire Commissioner (left) joined Killam Mayor Bud James (right) in presenting Killam Fire Chief Joe Knievel with a Fire Services Exemplary Service Medal on behalf of the Governor General on Friday, Jan. 10 during an awards ceremony for the department held at the Killam Legion.

The Killam Fire Department held their annual supper and awards ceremony on Friday, Jan. 10 in the Killam Legion.

After supper, Fire Chief Joe Knievel started the program.

“We have much to be proud of,” said Knievel “The Killam Fire Department is dedicated to delivering Fire and Rescue services to Flagstaff.

“Your dedication to training is strong; it shows you are serious about keeping our community safe.”

Knievel commended the members of the department for continuing their training with the new equipment put into service this year.

Knievel also thanked municipal partners the Town of Killam, and Flagstaff County.

“Thank you, too, to our employers, for allowing us to leave at a moment’s notice.

“Most especially, thank you to our partners and families, who get left behind when we answer a call.”

Finally, Knievel said to the fire fighters present, “Thank you to the members of Killam Fire and Rescue.

You take your commitment seriously. Know that our community appreciates the work you do.”

Killam Mayor Bud James took an opportunity to poke a little fun at Chief Knievel and tell a few anecdotes about fire fighters, then said, “On behalf of the town of Killam, I would like to express our thanks for your dedication, time, and efforts.

“You are volunteers who are held to the same standards as professionals. Thank you for responding, day or night.

“Thank you for your compassion to those in need.

“Congratulations to those being honoured here for your dedication and time served.

“Fire fighters deliver peace of mind to the communities they serve; thank you especially for that.”

Knievel and Deputy Chief Gordon Thompson then distributed awards of recognition to new Junior Fire fighter Stephan Rawluk, and certificates to new members Ariana Vandenberg and David DuBourt, with a mention for new member James George, who was unable to attend.

Knievel congratulated Chris Bell for five years’ service. Bell, too, was unable to attend.

Knievel then presented Thompson with his 10-year service pin.

Knievel presented a 30 year pin to Ken Towers.

Towers accepted, saying, “It’s been a pleasure working in the town for 30 years, and I’m not going anywhere.”

Knievel then presented member Ken Fleck with his 35-year service pin.

Read more in the January 14, 2014 edition of The Community Press. Available on newsstands now or via E-Subscription.

Leslie Cholowsky,
Editor