The Dauphin Firefighter’s Association held its 119th annual Fire Fighters’ Ball over the weekend.
People filled the Ukrainian Orthodox Hall to celebrate the successes of the Dauphin Fire Department over the past year.
The night saw awards given out to the best of the best of the Department, as well as the swearing-in of new recruits.
Level 1 Fire Fighters that completed their required exams earlier this year were presented their badges and sworn in by reciting the Fire Fighter Oath of Office. Those Fire Fighters are Mitchell Kanton, Devon Kiesman, Cameron Popiel, Jordan Steiner, Jennifer Thompson, and Nathaniel Yury.
The Level 2 Fire Fighters that completed their exams were presented with a Fire Service Challenge Coin. Challenge coins were presented to Mitchell Kanton and Devon Pylypchuk.
Also during the awards portion, several Fire Fighters were presented with the Manitoba Association of Fire Chiefs Long Service Medal. Jack Bay was recognized for 36 years of service, Allan Gray was recognized for 40 years of service, and Garry Hollyoake, who has served for 44 years. Two medals will be presented at a later date to Alvin Bogoslowski for 36 years of service, and Richard Snyder for his 38 years of service.
The Governor General’s Exemplary Service Medal recognizing men and women dedicated to preserving Canada’s public safety through long and outstanding service was presented to David Clark, who has served for 31 years, and the Deputy Chief of the Sifton FD Gerald Rudkavich for over 40 years of service. Another Governor General’s award will be presented to Donny Woitowicz at a later date.
The final award of the night was the Jack Carey Memorial Fire Fighter of the Year award.
Stay tuned to CKDM to find out who won that prestigious award, and how they feel about it.
When asked how the night went, Dauphin Fire Chief Cam Abrey said it was a success.
“It was very well attended, thanks to the community for coming out and joining us to celebrate the accolades of our award recipients, and joining us in the meal, and a great time of fellowship,” said Abrey. “It was great food, great friends, and great memories made.”
Abrey also attributed the support of the community for helping make the annual Firefighters Ball the longest-running event in the history of Dauphin, if not the longest-running event in Manitoba.
The 120th annual Dauphin Fire Fighters’ Ball will be held Saturday, November 7th, 2020
