Perth East firefighters honoured for years of dedicated service at annual awards banquet

Retiring Perth East firefighter Tim Hodgson was honoured for 25 years of dedicated service with the Shakespeare fire station during the department's annual awards banquet at the Shakespeare Optimist Hall last week. Hodgson was presented with his firefighter helmet, bearing the number 18, along with service awards recognizing his contributions to the community. Pictured, from left, are Hodgson, deputy chief Steve Marriott, Shakespeare station chief Greg Ankenmann and Perth East Mayor Rhonda Ehgoetz. Hodgson also received a 25-year service medal from the Province of Ontario during the ceremony. Kristene Ankenmann photo

By Gary West

Members of the Perth East Fire Department gathered at the Shakespeare Optimist Hall last week for their annual awards banquet, recognizing the dedication and service of the volunteer firefighters who help keep township residents safe throughout the year.

The event brought together firefighters and their spouses or partners from the department's three stations in Shakespeare, Milverton and Sebringville for an evening of recognition and appreciation.

The annual banquet provides an opportunity to honour the men and women who volunteer their time to respond to fires, motor-vehicle collisions and other emergencies, often leaving their families, workplaces and personal commitments at a moment's notice.

Among those recognized during the evening was longtime Shakespeare firefighter Tim Hodgson, who recently retired after 25 years of dedicated service.

Shakespeare station chief Greg Ankenmann reflected on Hodgson's many contributions to the department, recalling how he was often among the first firefighters to arrive at the station when an emergency call came in.

Ankenmann praised Hodgson's commitment, professionalism and natural ability to respond to challenging situations, whether fighting fires or assisting at accident scenes.

He also spoke about Hodgson's friendly personality and good nature, qualities that made him a valued member of the department and someone his fellow firefighters will greatly miss.

During the ceremony, Perth East Fire Chief Bill Hunter presented Hodgson with several service awards recognizing his contributions over the past 25 years.

Hodgson was also presented with a 25-year service medal from the Province of Ontario, acknowledging his longstanding commitment to protecting his community.

In a particularly meaningful moment, Ankenmann presented Hodgson with his firefighter helmet, bearing the number 18, as a keepsake commemorating his years of service with the Shakespeare station, now known as Perth County Station 6.

Perth East Mayor Rhonda Ehgoetz was also on hand to recognize Hodgson's contributions and join department leadership in honouring his retirement.

The evening served as a reminder of the important role volunteer firefighters play in rural communities, where their dedication and willingness to respond when needed help ensure the safety and wellbeing of residents throughout Perth East.