Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to extend my sincere congratulations to the members of the West Haven Fire Department, past and present, as they celebrate their 125th…
Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to extend my sincere congratulations to the members of the West Haven Fire Department, past and present, as they celebrate their 125th anniversary. This is a milestone for this wonderful organization and I am proud to have this opportunity to honor their outstanding work on behalf of the West Haven community.
The men and women who serve as firefighters face risks that few of us can comprehend. Each day, they must be ready to perform under intense pressure--literally in life or death situations as we have all witnessed in recent days. Few things are more important than feeling safe in our homes and workplaces. Our firefighters provide us with that peace of mind. Their commitment and dedication cannot be questioned and our thanks can never repay those who put their lives on the line to ensure our safety. A combination of career and volunteer firefighters, the members of the West Haven Fire Department have demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to our community.
On November 6, 1888, a fire broke out at the Hinman Hotel on the Corner of Washington Avenue and Beach Street. Not having a fire department of their own, the City of West Haven sent word to New Haven and asking for assistance. Unfortunately, by the time the New Haven Fire Department was able to respond, the Hinman Hotel had burned to the ground. This prompted the people of West Haven to form their own fire department and on November 18, 1888, Engine & Hose Company #1 was founded.
It was not until 1892 that two more companies were formed. In January of that year, the James Graham Hook & Ladder and the West Haven Hook & Ladder both came to be. In 1895 North End Hose #3 and Seaside Hose #4 (later to become Savin Rock Hose #4) both entered the department. Although the James Grahams would disband in 1902, Engine #1, Hook & Ladder, Engine #3 and Engine #4 all remain active companies to this day. During World War II, a group of firefighters would be formed and funded by the Federal Government for civil defense. At the end of the war these men founded Steven Heights Engine Company #5, bringing the total number of the volunteer companies back up to five.
In 1919, shortly after the passing of House Bill 177, West Haven's first official Board of Commissioners was seated and they continue to serve in the same capacity to this day. On January 24, 1933, the Commissioners appointed the first six permanent paid firemen, establishing the career department. Lloyd Cameron was appointed Chief of Department by the new board in 1919. In 1936 the board made Chief Cameron the first Permanent Paid Chief of the department. Over its 125 year history, the career department would expand from six men to its current compliment of 54. All in all 167 men have been hired by the career department including those who are currently employed.
In 1988, in conjunction with the 100th anniversary of the department, the Department began their Explorer Post program. Young boys and girls of high school age are able to join the Explorers, learn about firefighting and train alongside the members of the Department. Most go on to join the volunteer companies and a few have even become career firefighters.
Today, as they reflect on their history and look towards their future, I am honored to extend my sincere thanks and appreciation to every member of the West Haven Fire Department, career or volunteer, past and present, for their outstanding service to our community. Happy 125th anniversary.
