Long term commitments are rare. But Ann Keegan is an exception. On March 25, the Highland Engine Company honored her for her 50 years in the auxiliary. The long-time volunteer received certificates from County Legislator Kevin Hines and Assemblyman James Skoufis (neither of them have been around 50 years; although the legislator is much closer to 50 than the Assemblyman).
Assistant Chief Tave Graham was the Master of Ceremonies for the dinner on the second floor of the fire house. There were 155 guests, including representatives of many neighboring fire companies. Chief Graham introduced them all, and later welcomed retired Supreme Court Judge John McGuirk, who received a special ovation when he arrived during dinner.
Brendan Casey, Orange County’s Director of Emergency Services administered the oath of office to the company’s officers.
This was Highland Engine Company’s 187th annual dinner. Two days after the event, Company President J. Kerry McGuinness hosted a tour of the fire house for the Cornwall Historical Society.
Cornwall Fire Dept.: Patrick Hines (chief), Autavis Graham (assistant chief)
Board of Fire Commissioners: Alexander Vanacore, Robert Schimpf, Kevin Hines, Robert Conley. Robert D’Arrigo, Brian Bacher (Secretary), Gary Rank (treasurer)
Highland Engine Co.: J. Kerry McGuinness (president), William Goldsmith (vice president), Brain Bacher (secretary), Kevin Hines (treasurer), Chris Gardner (sergeant at arms,) Rev. Stephen J. Racite (pastor), Don Bounty (captain), Keven Smith (1st lieutenant), Austin McCarty (2nd lieutenant).
Board of Trustees: Alexander Vanacore, Joel Hahn, Robert Pinder, Dan Dulaney, Joseph Halvorsen, Tony Ambrosino, Daniel Spangler.
Awards: Michael LoBlanco Jr. (Captain’s Award). Brian Bacher (President’s Award). Chet Gardner (top responder). Ann Keegan (50 year member of the auxiliary).
