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by Ray Pauley
Public Information Officer
Grand Island Fire Co.
Town, county and state government officials praised the Grand Island Fire Co. for its proud tradition of community service for the past 76 years. This anniversary celebration tool place at fire headquarters on Saturday, May 17, and was well attended by family members and special guests, including local fire service officers.
Board of Directors Chairman Greg Butcher noted that the GIFC has kept pace with increased membership recruitment demands and took in a class of six rookies during 2014. Personal sacrifice is nothing new to members of the volunteer fire service, who provide more than 70 percent of fire and emergency medical services protection throughout the United States. He concluded that GIFC accomplishments to date would indicate that the township is "in very good hands."
President Chuck Picone, Chief Matt Osinski and Butcher recognized 13 individuals for years of service within the fire company.
Osinski and medic Sean Manning received the prestigious 20-year life membership award. Lou D'Orazio was lauded for his 50 years of dedicated service, and Pete McMahon for 55 years of outstanding leadership in firematic as well as administrative capacities. Nicole Butcher, president of the Ladies Auxiliary, presented the GIFC with a $500 check in support of future needs.