Minister Crocker Congratulates Long Serving Volunteer Firefighters  

  • Justice and Public Safety

November 20, 2020

The Honourable Steve Crocker Minister of Justice and Public Safety is acknowledging the dedication of the Victoria Volunteer Fire Department.

Seven firefighters are receiving long service awards in a ceremony tonight (Friday, November 20) in recognition of 20 to 45 years of service as volunteer firefighters.

Those being recognized include:

  • Vernon Layden (20 years’ service)
  • Dennis Whyte (30 years’ service)
  • Mike Parsons (35 years’ service)
  • Lionel Priddle (35 years’ service)
  • Tom Rogers (40 years’ service)
  • Wilson Layden (40 years’ service)
  • Eugene Cole (45 years’ service)

The awards come at a particularly difficult time for the Victoria Fire Department who on November 12, 2020 responded to a fatal structure fire.

Quote
“Volunteer firefighters are the unsung heroes of our communities, risking their lives every day to keep us safe. Sadly, not every call results in a happy ending, yet volunteer firefighters still run towards danger when the instinct of most others is to run away. On behalf of residents of Victoria and surrounding communities, and the entire province, I want to thank not only these seven firefighters, but all volunteer firefighters for their courage and commitment to the province.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Justice and Public Safety

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Media contact
Lesley Clarke
Justice and Public Safety
709-729-6985, 699-2910
lesleyclarke@gov.nl.ca

2020 11 20 4:30 pm