Five distinguished members of the Russell Township Fire Services were celebrated on Sat., Oct. 5, 2024, during an evening gala in Vankleek Hill. From Left: Mayor Mike Tarnowski, Richard Godin (CAO), Fire Chief Brian McBain, Robert Séguin and his partner Monique Brabant, Stéphane Séguin and Scott Hayes from the Ontario Fire Marshal Office (OFM). Absent: Adam Armstrong and David Scott. Courtesy Photo

VANKLEEK HILL – Russell Township is proud to announce the recognition of five distinguished members of the Russell Township Fire Services, who were celebrated on Sat., Oct. 5, 2024, during an evening gala in Vankleek Hill.

The evening was dedicated to honouring firefighters from across Prescott-Russell for their exceptional service and dedication to keeping their communities safe.

The prestigious Fire Services Exemplary Service Medal, awarded by the Governor General of Canada, was presented to several firefighters who have completed 20 years of service, including a minimum of 10 years in roles involving potential risks. Bars are awarded for every additional 10 years of service. The following members of Russell Township Fire Services were recognized:

  • Captain Adam Armstrong – 20 years of service
  • Captain David Scott – 20 years of service
  • Fire Chief Brian McBain – 30 years of service
  • Auxiliary Firefighter Robert Séguin – 50 years of service

In addition, the Fire Services Long Service Medal is awarded by the Government of Ontario to recognize firefighters who have demonstrated dedication and commitment for a minimum of 25 years. The following member was recognized for this outstanding achievement:

  • Firefighter Stéphane Séguin – 25 years of service

A particularly special moment during the ceremony was the awarding of the 50-year service bar to Robert Seguin and the 25-year service medal to his son, Stéphane Séguin. This rare father-and-son combination, representing a remarkable 75 years of combined service, is a testament to their unwavering dedication to protecting their community.

“We are incredibly fortunate to have such dedicated individuals in our community,” said Mayor Michael Tarnowski. “The Séguin family, with Robert celebrating 50 years of volunteer service and his son Stéphane marking 25 years, have demonstrated a remarkable legacy of commitment and sacrifice. Alongside our Fire Chief’s 30 years of industry experience, and Captains Adam Armstrong and David Scott’s 20 years, their contributions play a vital role in ensuring the safety and well-being of Russell Township.

“We are deeply grateful for their unwavering dedication and the sense of security they provide our community.”

Russell Township extends its deepest gratitude to these firefighters for their tireless service and commitment to the safety of the township’s residents. The community is fortunate to have such exemplary individuals serving the Township. Their hard work and bravery ensure the continued well-being of their community.