Elder Spotlight

Dick has lived in Akwesasne most of his life except for a short stay in Massena. He agreed to share part of his story with our readers. He dove right into his main interest, which is volunteer firefighting for the community of Akwesasne. HAVFD station #1 is where he spends much of his time when needed or called upon. Presently, he has been involved as an exempt member since 1993. His main role is to educate school children in the Fire Prevention Program. The St. Regis Mohawk School students are bused over to the fire department where the program takes place. Thirty-one years ago, John McDonald and Dick started to run the classes. The classes still take place with the help of younger men. Dick said, "When this program first began, we were running on a small budget and were able to buy a few things for the children as well as posters and teaching aids such as videos with characters at their age level. The help that comes now annually is growing because of the generosity of community, Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe and Tarbell Management."

Dick really enjoys teaching the children and especially appreciates his fellow fire fighters that come over to give him a hand. As time passes on, the realization is that fresh help is needed to be able to carry this on into the future. Jason McDonald is gaining experience talking to the children and he is doing a very good job. As well, Cameron Mitchell is involved and impressively is already ranking as Captain.

So prior to Dick getting involved with firefighting, he spent a few years living in Massena before coming back to Akwesasne. During that time, Dick played some semi pro football with a team called "The Warriors." In that league, unfortunately, a knee injury shortened his career. Another experience he had as a young man was that he drove a charter bus line called, "Far City Bus Lines" from Massena. They would run buses all over the country. Next, Dick went on to drive for a larger bus line company in Thousand Islands.

Dick's wife is Aleese and, as with all the wives, they are given a lot of credit for all their help. They also volunteer time during fire calls and fundraisers. Speaking of women, there are a couple more joining the department upon completion of their classes in Malone where they need to complete 128 hours of training and class work.

Trophy collecting is another part of Dick's world. He collects native statues, ceramics, chess game pieces and many more. They are seen in his profile picture.

"Firefighting is a very rewarding job and I loved it. I really miss not being active now, when I was active my job was to drive the truck," said Dick. "Nowadays, we have to make way for the young guys. Everything is changing...new methods, strategies, new technology. There is a waiting list at times but they are coming."

Station # 1 is the main headquarters of the three districts. Derek Comins is the head Chief over all district stations. "He commands all the fire calls and if he isn't there, then Clint Jacobs, our first assistant is in command. If Clint isn't there, then it goes 2nd, 3rd assistant. If no one is there then it falls on the oldest person with the most experience, he will take command," said Dick.

The exempt members can do anything except be active firefighters. They can also hold office. Other contributions done by Dick is that he loves to cook. So he is always available if there was a dinner or workshops. Those are not as often anymore.

I learned a new word while I was visiting the station, "flash over," it means the temperature that is reached when everything catches fire.

To Dick, thank you for your time. We really appreciate your story.