MORRISBURG – South Dundas Fire and Emergency Services held its first ever official graduation ceremony May 7th in South Dundas council chambers.
During the touching ceremony the latest round of probationary firefighters turned in their yellow trainee helmets in exchange for their permanent black helmets.
SDFES fire chief Cameron Morehouse presented the black helmets to each of the six new firefighters.
As part of the ceremony each probationary firefighter invited a mentor or someone who has an influence in their life to affix their firefighter epaulettes. They also received their name tag and a certificate.
“Tonight is a big event for our probationary firefighters,” said Cameron Morehouse, fire chief for South Dundas Fire and Emergency Services. “They are very excited to lose that probationary title,” added Morehouse.
Six firefighters, who joined the force 12 months ago, graduated at last Tuesday’s event.
“It’s good that there are people within the municipality who want to help us out, want to be part of this and want to be in the action,” said South Dundas mayor Steven Byvelds. “This council certainly supports the fire department. We believe you have a big role to play in this municipality. We want to make sure you have the tools so that we have a number one fire and emergency service department.”
Quoting an old saying Chief Morehouse said: “The best thing an old firefighter can teach a young firefighter is how to become an old firefighter.”
South Dundas’ newest firefighters are: Johnny Testerink, James Vaughn, Anthony Lemaire, Julenea Barnhartd, Chris Marchand and Chris Goupil.
Testerink is with the Iroquois station. Vaughn, Lemaire, Barnhartd, Marchand and Goupil are with the Morrisburg Station.
Below are some photos from the May 7th SDFES firefighter graduation.
