NEW BERLIN – Later this month, firefighters from all across Chenango County will come together in the Village of New Berlin for their 87th annual convention.

The 2009 Chenango County Firemen’s Convention will be held on two separate weekends beginning Friday, Aug. 21 with a memorial service St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in New Berlin followed by a dinner banquet at the New Berlin Fire Department – this year’s host for the event.

Firefighters at the banquet will hear guest speaker, Fort Drum Assistant Fire Chief Stephen Jellie, as he makes a presentation to the members.

The 2009 recipient of the Chenango County Fireman of the Year will also be unveiled.

On Saturday, Aug. 22, members will convene at the Unadilla Valley Central School for an educational seminar called “The Point of No Return – Rule of Air Management” put on by the City of Seattle’s Fire Battalion Chief Phillip A. Jose. Jose and his crew have spoken at the international Firehouse World and Firehouse Expo and the training they offer is considered to be life saving, explained one of the event’s organizers, New Berlin firefighter George Hanslmaier.

“The convention is basically to honor the volunteers and Chenango county service members, establish a memorial to those who have served and offer us a forum to present the county’s service awards,” said Hanslmaier.