Firefighter Memorial Sunday is observed annually on the second Sunday in June to honor and remember firefighters, particularly those who have died in the line of duty. Methuen Fire Department commemorated this day June 8 by not only honoring their departed, but also pinning their newest firefighters and presenting scholarships to graduating high school seniors.
A round of applause erupted when Chief Tim Sheehy took to the podium greeting firefighters and their families saying, “This will be my last official event with the Fire Department.”
A member of MFD for 32 years, including 10 as chief, he officially retires July 11. Deputy Chief David Toto has been tapped by Mayor DJ Beauregard as the next chief, pending City Council approval.
Retired Lt. James Garrity proudly performed the national anthem at the opening of the ceremony. Firefighters Susan Vallera, Cooper Brown and Michael Lussier read the names of the departed firefighters. The honor of “Tolling the Bell” for the departed firefighters went to Firefighter Patrick Fleming.
Deputy Chief Toto read “The Firefighters Prayer” and Pastor Nathaniel Burnes gave blessings to the firefighters.
Methuen’s newest firefighters, Patrick Fleming and Ian Beeley, received their official badges during the ceremony, while Acting Lt. Jody St. Marie was promoted to permanent lieutenant.
Firefighters Local 1691 President James McLaughlin and Scholarship Committee member Firefighter Steve Giarrusso presented scholarships to the following: Nolan Smith, son of Lt. Tim Smith; Brady Gerardi, son of Firefighter Jeff Gerardi; Mia Gorham, daughter of Firefighter Fred Gorham; Sophie Doherty, daughter of Firefighter James Doherty; and Anthony Tarquino, grandson of Firefighter John “PJ” Moran.
In the non-relative category, Macy McDermott, Aidan Marino and Mia Ness all received scholarships.
~ Nancy Reardon
Firefighter Patrick Fleming Tolls the Bell for fallen firefighters.
New Firefighter Ian Beeley is pinned by his girlfriend, Maddie.
Sophie Doherty, flanked by Firefighters Local 1691’s Steve Giarrusso and Union President Jim McLaughlin, will use her scholarship at the University of New Hampshire this fall.
