Fire department bids farewell to three long-time members

By Rob Vogt
Courage, dedication, and hard work were honoured as three long-time members of the Claresholm Fire Department were sent off in style after a combined 90-plus years of service.
Between 70 and 80 people were expected to celebrate the retirement of Lieutenant Gerald McNair and Captains Danny Egger and Grant Ling at a gathering at the Claresholm Community Centre on Friday, May 5.
Chief Craig White of the Claresholm Fire Department emceed the event, paying tribute in turn to the three retiring members.
Danny Egger served with the department for 39 years.
“Your commitment to the department and the community is truly inspiring, and we are grateful for the sacrifices you have made to ensure our safety,” White said. “Your leadership has been instrumental in shaping the department into what it is today.”
Grant Ling served with the department for 23 years.
“Your dedication to the job and the community has been a shining example for all of us to follow, and your passion for helping others is truly admirable,” White said. “Your positive attitude and unwavering commitment to the department will be greatly missed.”
Gerald McNair served with the department for 30 years.
“Your hard work and dedication to the department have not gone unnoticed, and we are grateful for the sacrifices you have made to keep our community safe,” White said. “Your leadership and expertise have been invaluable, and we will miss your guidance and support dearly.”
White also paid tribute to the spouses of the firefighters, expressing the department’s gratitude.
“We recognize that your support and sacrifices have also been instrumental in their success,” he said.
White acknowledged the impact Egger, Ling and McNair have had on the community and fire department as well.
“Their bravery, dedication, and commitment to duty have left a lasting impression, and we are all better for it,” he said. “We wish them all the best in their retirement and hope that they will continue to inspire us all with their future endeavours.”
Kelly Starling brought greetings from the Municipal District of Willow Creek.
He recalled when he was starting out as chief of the Claresholm Fire Department.
“All three of you guys,” he said. “I relied on your guidance.
“I do appreciate that guidance.”
Brad Schlossberger brought greetings from the Town of Claresholm.
He said Claresholm has always had a sense of pride for its fire department. It has had a long, proud history with great leaders.
“We are here to celebrate the retirement of three great leaders,” Schlossberger said. “You have all earned your spot in the proud history of the Claresholm Fire Department.”
“It’s been an honour and a privilege to be a firefighter,” McNair said.