The 2024 Prescott and Russell Mutual Aid Association Firefighter’s Gala, hosted by the Township of Champlain, took place on Saturday, October 5 at the Vankleek Hill Community Centre. This biennial event celebrates the dedication and service of firefighters from the eight municipalities of Prescott and Russell. Guy Rouleau acted as Master of Ceremonies. A total of 35 firefighters, including 28 in attendance, were honored for their many years of service. From 20 to 50 years of selfless commitment to their communities, these men and women have demonstrated extraordinary bravery and dedication. The event included guests Glengarry-Prescott-Russell MPP Stéphane Sarrazin, and United Counties of Prescott and Russell Warden and Champlain Township Mayor Normand Riopel.
“We are incredibly proud of the men and women who stand on the frontlines, protecting our communities, day in and day out. Their dedication and sacrifice do not go unnoticed, and it is a privilege to honour them this evening,” Riopel said.
Fire Chief Ghislain Pigeon also took the opportunity to congratulate the honorees: “Our firefighters embody the true spirit of service and commitment. Tonight, we celebrate not only their years of hard work but also their dedication to ensuring the safety and well-being of our citizens. We are fortunate to have such an extraordinary group of individuals.”
The gala served as a reminder of the vital role firefighters play in our communities and the incredible support they receive from their families. Each honoree’s years of service are a testament to their unwavering commitment to public safety.
Honorees
The gala recognized the following honorees for their outstanding service:
- Richard Sincennes, District Chief, 25 years of service. Hired in December 1999 at Champlain Fire Services (L’Orignal); promoted to Captain in June 2001, Assistant Chief in June 2004, and District Chief in January 2008.
- Alain Duval, Volunteer Firefighter, 20 years of service. Hired in 2003 at Champlain Fire Services (L’Orignal) at the L’Orignal station.
- Anthony Quann, Captain, 20 years of service. Hired in 2003 at Hawkesbury, then joined Champlain Fire Services in L’Orignal in 2013; became Captain in 2015. Retired in August 2024 after a total of 21 years of service.
- Patrick Bernier, Assistant Chief, 30 years of service. Hired in April 1994 at Champlain Fire Services (L’Orignal); promoted to Captain in June 2002 and has served as Assistant Chief since February 2013.
- Michel Martin, District Chief, 40 years of service. Hired in January 1984 at Vankleek Hill Fire Department (now Champlain Fire Services); promoted to Captain in May 1989, Deputy Chief in 1994, and District Chief in 2013.
- James Cowan, Captain, 35 years of service. Hired in May 1989 at Vankleek Hill Fire Department (now Champlain Fire Services); promoted to Captain in September 2003 and retired in June 2024 after 35 years of service.
- Martin Zilhmann, Captain, 20 years of service. Hired from August 2004 to March 2012 at La Nation Fire Department (St-Isidore); joined Champlain Fire Services at the Vankleek Hill station in June 2012 and was promoted to Captain in July 2024. He has also been part of the Ottawa Fire Department since April 2021 as a firefighter and peer trainer.
- Eric Jaring, Volunteer Firefighter, 35 years of service. Hired in May 1989 at Vankleek Hill Fire Department (now Champlain Fire Services).
Additionally, the gala honored firefighters from other municipalities, including Joel Myre, Jean-François Santerre, Julien Boisvenue, Julie Cardinal, Alain Gourgon, Stéphane Lacelle, Martin Pilon, Marc Laforest, Adam Armstrong, David Scott, Eric Houle, Serge Bougie, Gabriel Lalonde, Serge Richer, Benoit Savage, Giovanni Caporicci, Robert Regimbal, Martin Saumure, Stéphane Séguin, Sébastien Forget, Brian McBain, Guillaume Normand, Mike Sheridan, Daniel Voisine, Jacques Lavergne, Raymond Lavergne, Michel Jedynack, and Robert Séguin.
Submitted photos
