On Valentine's Day, Feb 14th the Memorial Fire Company held its 2014 Banquet at our Station 1. After our cocktail hour and dinner our program began. Board of Directors Chairman Bill Tobin served as the master of ceremonies. Bill introduced our guests and area Chiefs and Presidents. Our Ladies Auxiliary President Janet Swain presented (2) 30 year awards to Rose Wilcutts and Susie Morris. FD President Jester presented each member of our Ladies Auxiliary with a charm for their FD bracelet. President Swain presented President Jester with a check of appreciation from the Ladies. Sussex County Vol. Firefighters Association President Steve Deery installed all of our elected officers. President Jester then acknowledged Past State Representative George Carey with a plaque of appreciation for all he has done for our FD and community. Chairman Tobin and President Jester presented Don Evans with an award as 20 straight years as the top EMS responder. Next was the service awards. 10 years- Nick Wechtenhiser, 15 years- Chad Holleger, 30 years- Chris Hayes, 35 years- Don Evans, 45 years- George Beideman, 45 years- Terry Jester, 45 years- Rob Wechtenhiser. Our last remaining Charter Member Howard Hitchens celebrated his 60 Years of service. State Rep Harvey Kenton and Past Rep George Carey filling in for Senator Gary Simpson read resolutions from the House and Senate. Eastern Division of the IAFC Vice President Bill Betts gave Howard a plaque from the International Chiefs. Howard was Past Chief, Asst Chief Engineer and served on many committees over the years. Howard was given his jacket, vest, gold Chiefs ring and a custom light with the bottom acrylic Sta 89 logo with LED lights in the base. A chrome horn on the base with a light at the top. We are so proud of Howard for all his years building this FD from the ground up and us now serving our district with 2 stations. Chief Pfaffenhauser gave the top 10 fire responders with gifts then presented the Firefighter of the Year to Asst. Fire Chief Britt Deese. A very well deserved award. Would like to thank the banquet committee with a great job. Also want to thank Howard's wife Betty and son and member Chris for being with our hero for his night of recognition.