A Voice from the Eastern Door
A Voice from the Eastern Door
The Firefighter of the Year award was presented to Issac McDonald, 3rd Assistant Fire Chief for desire in learning new technologies in firefighting, his knowledge of operating the larger fire trucks, his patience for new rookies, his organizational skills (HAVFD 60th Anniversary) and laying the groundwork for a well planned building. L-R: Jerome McDonald, Cameron Mitchell, Michelle Laffin, Issac McDonald and Derek Comins.
Kanetiio Mitchell, Kawehnoke earned the Rookie of the Year award for his commitment and outstanding work as a rookie.
The Captains Choice Award; Kawehnoke Station #3 Captain Ben Benedict presented the Captains Choice Award to Howie Jock. Snye Station # 2 Captain Sturge Lazore presented the Captains Award to Nicholas Jacobs. Hogansburg Station #1 Captain Issac McDonald presented the Captains Award to Cameron Mitchell. Pictured from left to right; Cameron Mitchell, Issac McDonald, Ben Benedict, Sturge Lazore, and Nicholas Jacobs.
The Officer of the Year award was presented to Clint Jacobs, 1st Assistant Fire Chief for his passion about the safety of each family and of our community itself.
Retired firefighters (from left to right) Jack Treptow, Charlie Jacobs, Mose "Sonny" McDonald, and across the table, Frank Lacerenza, Donnie Comins and Jack's grandson, Ben Treptow.
Curtis Terrance and Hilary Jacobs (absent) were presented with appreciation plaques. Terrence created a unique and one of a kind fire truck out of splint and sweetgrass.
The "Seymour Girls" were presented with an Appreciation Award for their hard work and dedication to the HAVFD and to the community at large. The Seymour Girls include Florence, Howie, Barbara, Liz, Annette, Josie, Billiejo, Joanne, Christy, Jamie, Julia, Sabrina and Margaret. Pictured, front L-R: Joanne Jocko, Barbara Seymour, Annette Seymour, Julia Jacobs, Stanley Jacobs and Sandra Boots. Back row: Cameron Mitchell, Billiejo Treptow, Cecil Ransom, Ben Benedict and Mike Adams.
Fireman of the Year, Issac McDonald and Julie Anne Skidders.
Fire Chief Derek Comins and Andrea Cook.
The HAVFD held their annual dinner and awards ceremony on Saturday, March 5, 2016 at the Brass Horse Grill. The evening started with cocktails at 5 followed by a prime rib dinner catered by ESP Catering. The event was attended by about 150 people, including family members and members of surrounding fire departments, including Bombay, Malone and Moira. The HAVFD has several mutual aid agreements with surrounding communities to take a teamwork approach to fire fighting, fire safety and rescue. Jason McDonald, Treasurer, emceed the evening. The fire department honored many of its members for their service to the community and for their commitment to safety and protection. Fire Chief Derek Comins noted how the HAVFD has grown over the years, acquiring new equipment, new training procedures and generally upgrading their ability to keep the community safe. The work they started years ago continues today and from this present firefighters strive to provide a safe and secure environment here in Akwesasne, but also in surrounding communities. As well, Fire Chief Comins added outside help was invaluable this past year, calling on Bombay, Westville, Moira, Malone, Massena, Norfolk, Brasher, Winthrop, Louisville and Fort Covington Fire Departments to assist in the Twinleaf fire.
The 2016 HAVFD Appreciation Awards was presented to Ernest Cree for his dedication and commitment to the community of Akwesasne.
As well, the spouses of firemen and women were recognized for their indirect and direct commitment to their husbands, family and community. As taken from Facebook, "When we answer calls for help we leave our spouses, kids, family time to help those in need at a moment's notice. These ladies pull the work of mom and dad while we are away from home. We have worked through holidays, birthday parties, and family events. Lots of family time is sacrificed to serve those in need, to train, drill, and participate in department activities, without the strength and support of our spouses we would not be who we are today.
We would like to express our sincerest thanks to ALL of our active and exempt firefighters' spouses and families. These are some truly amazing, strong, and patient women, who have to endure many hours waiting for our firefighters to return home.
Thank you for your support and for being there when we return home from difficult calls. We cannot do what we do without your support. Signed, HAVFD."
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