Firefighters’ dedication, sacrifices honored during Memorial Sunday

Members of the Bristol Volunteer Fire Department paid homage to their fallen brethren last weekend during Firefighter’s Memorial Sunday ceremonies. It was also an historic occasion for Firefighter’s Memorial and Welfare Committee General Chairman Jane E. Dwyer, who became the first female chief marshal of the annual Fireman’s Parade.

“This was quite an honor,” she said. “I’m so proud to a member of this department.”

Ms. Dwyer has been a member of the Bristol Fire Department for nearly 27 years. She joined the Division of Rescue in 1990, and was voted into the Dreadnaught Hook, Ladder, and Hose Co. #1 in 1992 as Bristol’s first female firefighter. She became a Life Member of the Dreadnaught Hook, Ladder, & Hose Company in 2012, and joined the Firefighter’s Memorial and Welfare Committee in 2013. In March 2017 at ceremonies held at the RI State House for International Women’s Day, she received citations from the Governor and other state officials in recognition of her service to the Bristol Fire Department as its most senior female member.

The parade began promptly at 1 p.m., following a Mass at St. Mary’s Church. It formed at the Dreadnaught Fire Station at the corner of High and Church Street, and proceeded through town to the Firefighter’s Memorial Park on Thames Street, where ceremonies were conducted.

Master of ceremonies David E. Barboza introduced the Rev. Canon Elizabeth Habecker, interim rector at St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, who gave the invocation. Bristol’s Victoria Carroll sang the National Anthem, followed by the introduction of Chief Marshal Dwyer.

After Arthur P. Sousa, 98, the oldest living member of the department, was honored, guest speaker N. Diane Davis, a native Bristolian and retired director of human services Bristol, recollected some harrowing local firefighting moments when the Bristol Fire Department served above and beyond the call of duty.

“All you firemen are putting your lives in jeopardy every time you respond to a fire call because you don’t always know what obstacles are in your way,” she said. “Think of all the service you have given the townspeople and know how grateful we all are.”

She also praised the local Rescue Squad, the Bristol Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary, and Fire Police for their efforts and impact on the Bristol community.

“Our department is there for all the town,” she said. “To all you men and woman assembled here, all I can say is thank you for your dedication to this town and its residents and visitors as you continue to serve, and keep up the good work. I speak for the entire town when I say that we appreciate you and your families for the sacrifices you all give for making Bristol the place to call home.”

Following the laying of the wreathes, state and town officials were introduced. Remarks were then given by Town Administrator and longtime fireman, Steven Contente. Mr. Barboza then read the necrology and Firefighters Prayer, followed by the tolling of the bell. Taps was played by Steve Skuba, followed by a musical interlude by the Mystic Highland Bagpipe Band.

Members of the BFD Board of Directors were introduced, followed by remarks by Fire Chief Michael DeMello, who said the day’s activities went according to plan.

“The weather was great and everything went well,” he said. “It was also fitting that Jane lead the firefighter’s parade this year. It was an honor well-deserved.”

The program closed with benediction by Rev. Canon Habecker.