Manchester Firefighters to Hold Annual Memorial Service

The Manchester Fireman’s Relief Association held its annual memorial service and meeting at 9 a.m.  Sunday, June 8, at the Firefighters’ Memorial Lot on Rosedale Avenue, across from Crowell Chapel. 

Firefighters and the public who attended the ceremony, led by Chaplain David Forsythe, honored Retired Chief Bruce MacDonald and others who have passed.  Fire Chief Jake McNeilly spoke, and Captain Dave Doucette offered a reading of The Fireman’s Prayer. 

Former Chief MacDonald passed away late last year.  Tom Kehoe offered a tribute to MacDonald, who began his career in 1963 and rose through the ranks—promoted to Captain in 1996 and appointed Fire Chief in 1997—before retiring in 2001.   Kehoe said MacDonald was a true Manchester “townie” who was an avid fisherman who also, interestingly, didn’t eat fish.  “He caught them for his cat,” said Kehoe.

Active and retired firefighters attended a light breakfast and business meeting at the fire station following the ceremony. 
(Photos: Erika Brown)