GREENE – Volunteer firefighters are those who dedicate their life to protect others. According to Oxford Fire Chief Ron Martin, they do so because of their personal convictions and compassion, with no expectation of return for their hard work and personal sacrifice. On April 4, Martin and more than 150 others gathered to give the men and women of the Oxford Fire Department and Emergency Squad the recognition they deserve.
“Thank you for taking the time out of your personal life to help someone else in their time of tragedy,” said Martin, as he addressed the volunteers, community members and guests present at the organization’s Annual Awards Banquet, held at the Baron’s Inn in Greene.
With volunteerism on the decline, the chief said he dreads the day when someone takes on these duties “for a paycheck” rather than because of their convictions and commitment to the community, as current members of the organization do.
“For now,” he said, “we will continue to answer the call.”
And answer calls they do. In the last 12 months, 537 fire and EMS calls were answered by the department. Crews responded to a total of 22 fires, 11 of which were building fires. According to Emergency Squad Captain Craig Chesebro, squads responded to 427 emergencies during that time period, 50 non-emergencies, and were on standby for mutual aid requests on 17 occasions.
“We’re very strong,” said Chesebro. But despite the fact that they are currently successful at keeping their talented volunteers, he added, his squad faces the same challenges as the entire department with “recruitment, retention and requirements.”
Members of the Fire Department, Emergency Squad, Auxiliary, Explorer’s Post and Fire Police were all recognized for their years of service during the banquet. Among those named were Ed Phoenix who has dedicated 60 years to the fire service and Robert Fowlston, William Fowlston, William Harvey, Sr., Robert Rood and Lynn Ross for 65 years.
In addition, three specials award were given.
Each year, one firefighter is selected by a panel of their peers to receive the prestigious Firefighter of the Year award. This year’s recipient, Ray Baldwin, was recognized for not only his 30 years of service, but for helping preserve the history of the organization and “setting the example of the level of equipment required” for exemplary service.
“He is truly an asset to our department,” said former Fire Chief Bill Harvey. “His expertise...is second to none.”
Also recognized were: Richard Howard as EMS Provider of the Year and Fire Police Award recipient Kevin Northrup.
Martin presented Chief awards to four individuals for their outstanding contributions to the department. Recipients were Fire Police Captain Paul Dropp, Auxiliary President Kim McConnell, Safety Officer Kim Nichols and Emergency Squad Secretary Mark Forrest.
“I highly respect ... everyone who is being recognized here tonight,” said New York State Assemblyman Cliff Crouch, who was a special guest at the event.