Bonnyville Station 5 Firefighters Appreciation Night volunteers recognized.

Bonnyville’s Station 5 held its first Firefighter Appreciation Night since 2019 earlier this month where volunteers had a chance to be recognized for their years of service and dedication over the years.  

“It was really nice to get back together with our members and their families as well as the community,” said Craig Wenzel, Station Chief for Station 5.

Awards were given out for five years of service, 10 years of service, and the big award of the night, firefighter of the year. 

“Firefighter of the year is extra special, it is a nomination based on our officer core and voted on by Station 5,” 

“The award is given to someone who has gone above and beyond in providing service and goes that extra mile.” 

This year Gideon Hancock got the honour of receiving firefighter of the year, with also receiving his five years of service award. 

“He is a devoted firefighter and our association secretary, a great individual overall, I have a lot of good things to say about him,” said Colin Atkitson, a firefighter for station 5. 

Firefighters had the chance to receive awards for their milestones hit over the last few years that could not be recognized due to covid-19. 

Five year service awards were given to Gideon Hancock, Shepherd Murenje, Dakota Theroux, Pireee Pelchat and Coltin Batke. 

10 year service awards were given to Dave Pepin, Colin Atkinson, Josh Dovedoff and Craig Wenzel. 

Live and silent auctions were held, and the association was able to raise 10,000 dollars to donate to the local charity, Rednecks with a Cause. 

“It is important to have a night like this where we can come together and see everyone outside of calls and be with everyone’s families, the fire department is one big family,” said Atkinson. 

 

Firefighter gets recognized further. 

Colin Atkinson a 12 year firefighter has been invited to Queen Elizabeth ll’s Platinum Jubilee award for his outgoing acts of service. 

Atkinson is not only a firefighter but volunteers in the Town of Bonnyville as a referee with the Bonnyville minor hockey association, Sub-Lieutenant and training officer in Cadets, and on the school council for Notre Dame Elementary as well as Ecole Dr. Bernard Brosseau. 

“I am tremendously honored that I was chosen and nominated, if it wasn’t for the people who have helped and guided me it wouldn’t be possible,” said Colin.

“I’ve never expected to receive an award, I am very humbled and honored that people feel I deserve this award.”