There was more than the usual number of people to recognize at the Highland Engine Company’s annual dinner. The event took place on the second floor of the firehouse on Saturday evening, March 15.
Besides the officers, the top responders, and the special guests, several people were singled out. Will MacMorran, who was visiting from Florida, was among the first to be introduced. At 90 plus, he’s the company’s oldest living member. Still spry, he waved to the crowd from his table, and smiled at the people who remembered him. Afterwards, he was surrounded by old friends who came over to say “hello.”
George Halvorsen, who still lives in town, is the longest serving member. He’s been a part of the company for 62 years. He came to the affair with photographs from a Highland Engine Company dinner that took place long before he joined.
There was applause for Laura Lapre (who will be leaving for her second tour in Afghanistan) and a standing ovation for Kurt Turner, who was back from Afghanistan after twice coming under attack. Mr. Turner, a former Marine, later received a Purple Heart pin from Sen. Bill Larkin, who was at the dinner with his wife Pat.
Kerry McGuinness, the company president, served as the master of ceremonies. Rev. Stephen Racite offered the invocation and benediction. Besides being the company chaplain, Rev. Racite has responded to several calls as a certified fire fighter.
Walt Koury, the county commissioner of Emergency Services, swore in the company’s officers. And Joe Halvorsen (George’s son).
Awards: Al Vanacore (President’s Award), Charles Paternostro (Captain’s Award).
Officers: Nick LoBlanco (captain), Donald Bounty (first lieutenant), Kerry McGuinness (president), Bill Goldsmith (vice president), Brian Bacher (secretary), Kevin Hines (treasurer), Dan Spangler (sergeant at arms), Rev. Stephen Racite (chaplain).
Trustees: Tony Ambrosino, James Basher, Dan Dulaney, Joe Halvorsen, Bob Pinder, Dan Spangler, Al Vanacore.
Responders: Dan Dulaney (98 calls), Michael LoBlanco Jr. (83), James Basher (81), Stephen Wersebe (80), Sean Kane (73).