The Birch Run Township Fire Department honored two recently retired members at their annual Christmas Party, on Sunday, December 7, 2008.

 

Former Chief, Thomas Totten, and Edward McNamara both served the Birch Run Township Fire Department for over fifty years.  They were each presented with a special 50-year plaque, which depicts an etched image of a helmet shield containing their unit number.

Ed McNamara has served with the fire department for 51 years.  His award was presented to him by his son, Edward McNamara III; a third generation firefighter himself. 

 

Tom Totten is the longest serving member of the fire department with 54 years of service.  This includes his leadership as Fire Chief for two years.  A commemorative white helmet with Tom’s unit number (2) will be displayed in the fire department’s showcase, along with the helmet of former Chief, Ozzie Schmitzer; as his number will be retired.  Tom’s award was presented to him by his son, Assistant Chief Jim Totten and his grandson, Brady Totten; also a third generation firefighter.

 

The Birch Run Township Fire Department once again, thanks both Tom Totten and Ed McNamara for their many years of dedicated service to the community.  They will always be welcome visitors and considered voices of wisdom at the fire hall.