By Kathy Brown.
The Haddam Neck Volunteer Fire Department was formed in Sept. 1968 with 15 charter members.
In the afternoon on Saturday, Sept. 15, 2018, the Haddam Neck Volunteer Fire Department celebrated its 50th Anniversary with an Open House which was attended by about 175 people, followed by a dinner for all members past and present, which was attended by over 100 people, according to Chief Bob McGarry. Six past chiefs attended the celebration, as well as three Charter members, and other former members. The Haddam Historical Society set up a display at the firehouse, which included a video of interviews with past members.
State Rep., Bob Siegrist, presented a citation from the Connecticut General Assembly recognizing the department’s 50 years of service to the community.
Haddam First Selectman Lizz Milardo addressed the crowd, thanking the department members for all the hours they devote to keeping the community safe, according to Chief McGarry. East Haddam Fire Department sent their ladder truck to hoist “an impressive American flag” and East Haddam Fire Department also sent an engine to the celebration.
Old Timers posed in front of one of the trucks. From left to right: Patrick Danaher, Bob Georgini (past Chief), Dr. Joseph Zaientz , Michael Steinbuchel, Barbara Casey, Dan Casey Sr. (charter member/past Chief), Rudy Metzger (charter member/past Chief), Jeff Dallas (past Chief), Jim Way (charter member).
Photo Credit: Neal Perron Photography (Neal is also a volunteer with the department).