The officers and members of the Clayton Fire Co.  regret to announce the passing of Life Member Bruce E. Dadswell.  Bruce passed away at Bayhealth Medical Ctr. in Dover on Tuesday January 6th after a short illness.  Bruce held several positions in the fire company including Captain and Historian.  Bruce was named fireman of the year in 1968.  He was always known for his great personality and wit.  Bruce was instrumental with helping when the fire company marching unit was started. For numerous years Bruce carried the fire company banner at every parade along Jerry Johnson.  Bruce will be sorely missed by all who knew him.  The company asks that you keep Bruce and his family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

Nine members of the company will be marching as part of the DVFA group in the upcoming Inauguration Parade on January 20th in Washington DC.  The DVFA was invited by the parade committee to march in this years parade.  There will be over 400 members of the DVFA marching as a group.  The Citizens Hose Co. marching band will also be marching with the group.  It is the second time that The Citizens Hose Co. band has marched in the parade.  Also accompanying the marching unit will be apparatus from Elsmere, Slaughter Beach, and Clayton Fire Co's.  Below is a article that recently appeared in the Delaware State News about the parade.  Members attending from Clayton will be Past Chief/Past President James L. Cubbage Jr., Past Chief and current DVFA 1st VP Kevin Wilson, Captain Mike Lucas, Past President Steve Hudson, and firefighters Brad Bowhall, Alex Carrow, Alan Dutton, Pat Kelleher, & Ashley Wilson.    

From the Delaware State News:

Firefighters Eye Once-In-A-Lifetime Event

Del. group to march in inaugural parade

By Leah Burcat

CLAYTON — For Alan Dutton of Smyrna, Jan. 20 will mark one of the greatest experiences of his life.  Mr. Dutton, a 17-year member of the Clayton Fire Co., will join other Delaware Volunteer Firemen’s Association members at the inaugural parade in Washington.  "This is a once-in-a-lifetime thing. It should be pretty interesting," he said.  More than 300 volunteer firefighters from around the state, along with the Citizens’ Hose Co. No. 1 Marching Band of Smyrna, will help usher in President-elect Barack Obama and Delaware’s own Vice President-elect Joseph R. Biden Jr.  In total, 418 members of the association will be marching, including band members. They represent 47 of the 61 fire departments in Delaware. Three fire trucks, one from each county,also  will be taking the trip to Washington.  Marching bands from Delaware State University, Alexis I. du Pont High School and the University of Delaware will be stepping in time at the parade as well.  Warren Jones, president of the Delaware Volunteer Firemen’s Association, said the organization wanted representatives from the entire state.  "We will all be marching under the banner of the Delaware Volunteer Firemen’s Association," he said.  After receiving word in early December that they were chosen to participate in the parade, association officials asked each of the 61 departments in the state to send six names of people to march and a list of alternates.  Because the event takes place on a Tuesday and tbecause enough people must stay in the area in case a fire call were to come in, some stations were not able to find six, or any, people to participate. Association officials were able to accept all submitted names and alternates. There will be 47 fire companies represented.  Three firefighters will be representing Dover. Terry Whitham, a former fire chief of the Dover Fire Department, will be one of the members from the Dover contingent.  "To be able to take part in a presidential inauguration is exciting. The vice president coming from our state is awesome. Joe Biden has been a great friend to the fire service. We’re glad we can show him our support," said Mr. Whitham.  Clayton will be sending seven fire company members and a piece of apparatus to Washington.  The fire truck representing Kent County will be coming from the Clayton Fire Co. It will be driven by Kevin L. Wilson, the first vice president of the Delaware Volunteer Firemen’s Association. The two other trucks will be coming from the Elsmere and Memorial of Slaughter Beach fire companies.  Brad Bowhall Jr. has been with the Clayton Fire Co. for three years and will be representing the department at the inauguration.  "It’s an historical event," he said of the inaugural parade. "Why would you not want to take part?"  Those participating will march alongside the Citizens’ Hose Co. No. 1 Marching Band.  The band was established in 1947. While other fire departments have hosted marching bands in the past, the Smyrna band is currently the only one in the state.  The marching band has a roster of 85, but only 62 will be able to make the inaugural parade.  "On (Dec. 8), we got the call that we were going to be in (the inaugural parade)," said Robert Merrill, chairman of the fire company band committee.  "Everybody’s excited. It’s a big event. It will be broadcast all over the world," said Mr. Merrill.  In 1997, the band marched in the inaugural parade of former President Clinton.  Although the band marched in 1997, the 2009 inaugural parade will be the first time the Delaware Volunteer Firemen’s Association as a whole will be taking part in an inaugural activity.  Before the big day, the entire group of 418 will be meeting for two practices in Dover to run through the parade routine.  On Jan. 20, the group will travel by bus to Washington. They will return to Delaware shortly after the parade.  "It will be a long day, but I’m up for the challenge," said Mr. Whitham.  "We’re all getting our cold weather gear out in preparation," said Mr. Merrill.  "It’s history. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime event. It doesn’t matter who you voted for; it’s a special moment for our country," said Mr. Jones.

Delaware State News

On Monday morning January 5, 17 members of our fire company joined hundreds of Firefighters, EMS, Police Officers, families & friends all came together to pay their final respects to firefighter Michelle Smith of the Delaware City Fire Co. who was tragically killed in the line of duty while treating a patient at an accident scene in Wilmington Manor on December 20.  Services were held at the Delaware City Fire House.  Upon completion of the service a procession of approximately 5 miles long and contained over a hundred Fire/EMS & Police Units and 50 private vehicles proceeded to the Odd Fellows Cemetery in Smyrna where Michelle was laid to rest.  The officers and members of the Clayton Fire Co. would again like to extend our sincere sympathy to the Smith Family and the Delaware City and Volunteer Hose Co of Middletown fire Companies for their loss.  Photo's courtesy of Lou Angeli of Wilmington Del.

As has been the case since the mid 1960's Santa made his Christmas Eve visit to all the children of Clayton.  Mr. & Mrs Claus who was accompanied by his elves (the fireman) made his way throughout the town.  The elves handed out candy to all the kids that came out to see Santa.

The members of the Delaware fire service join the members of the Delaware City Fire Co.and Volunteer Hose Co. of Middletown in mourning the passing of Firefighter/EMT Michelle Smith.  Michelle was injured when working on the scene of a MVC in Wilmington Manor Saturday evening.  Michelle succumbed to her injuries Monday Dec 22, 2008.  The member of the Clayton Fire Company would like to express their sincere sympathy to the Smith family, Michelle's daughter, and the members of the Delaware City and Volunteer Hose of Middletown Fire Co's for their loss.  You will be in our prayers.  Below is press release on her passing;

Monday, December 22, 2008
Michelle L. Smith
Station 15
DELAWARE CITY FIRE COMPANY NO. 1, INC. 815 FIFTH STREET DELAWARE CITY, DE 19706 MEDIA RELEASE ** FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE ** Dave Carpenter, Jr., PIO 893-4309 (Cell) OR: Ed Kalinowski, Asst. PIO 302-834-9336 (Station 15), 753-9097 (cell) Delaware City Firefighter Struck by Vehicle Dies From Injuries

Volunteer's Family and Fire Company Family Deal With This Tragic Loss

Delaware City, DE – On Monday morning, Dec. 22nd, the Delaware City Fire Company was informed of the tragic loss of Firefighter Michelle Smith, 29, who succumbed to the traumatic injuries she sustained on Dec. 20th (Saturday). Michelle was assisting with the care of a critically injured patient at the scene of a motorcycle accident on DuPont Highway. This is the first line of duty death for the Delaware City Fire Company in it's 121 year history.

Michelle L. Smith has served the Delaware City Fire Company and the Delaware City Ladies Auxiliary for over five years, holding the Secretary position with the Ladies Auxiliary. She also serves with the Volunteer Hose Company of Middletown, DE. Michelle is survived by her 12 year old daughter. A graduate of Middletown High School, Michelle worked for Coventry Healthcare.

“While we are hurting inside, we are thankful for all of the kind words and offers for assistance we have received”, says Department spokesperson Dave Carpenter, Jr. Michelle was a truly positive person that specifically became a member to provide assistance to the community, through fire prevention and emergency medical services. Michelle was the Co-Chair of the department's fire prevention committee and recently assisted with the fire company open house. She cherished the department's recent receipt of the Edward McCormack Award, presented by the Delaware State Fire Prevention Commission.

President Wally Poppe stated that “Firefighter Smith typified Delaware City Fire Company as a firefighter and as a member of the Ladies Auxiliary. She took great pride in her numerous contributions, including emergency response, fire prevention and community awareness.” The President. Chief Rosseel, and the Department wish to extend their condolences to Michelle's family, friends, and the Volunteer Hose Company who are all grieving over her death.

Funeral Arrangements are in progress.

As has been the case since the late 1960's Santa will make his annual trip through the town limits of Clayton wishing all the good boys and girls a Merry Christmas.  Santa escorted by his elves (the firefighters) will be leaving the firehouse at 5:15 PM and will during the next 3-4 hours visit every street in the town handing out candy to the kids.

Once again this year the Clayton Fire Company will be holding their Annual New Years Eve Party.  The party runs from 09:00 PM til 01:00 AM, doors open at 8:30 PM.  Music will be by a DJ.  There will be a light buffet and coffee and danishes after midnight.  There will be a cash bar with $10.00 bottomless mugs all night.  The cost is $25.00 per person or $45.00 per couple.  You must be 21 years old to attend.  For questions or for reservations please call 632-3445.

This years Firefighter of the Year award was presented to Mike Harrington during the 2008 Annual Banquet.  The award was presented by Chief Wes Davis.  During his speech Chief Davis spoke of how Mike had all the outstanding qualities you would look for in a winner of this award.  How Mike had proven himself as a dedicated member both in and out of the station.  How no matter what the time of day or type of call Mike was always there.  During the year Mike attended 240 fire alarms, 70 misc functions, 20 company drills, 9 uniform functions, 9 company meetings for a total of 390 points.  The Officers and Members of the fire company would like to congratulate Mike for his award.
 

This years William R. "Ace" Carrow  Memorial Award for Fireman of the Year was presented to Charles "Skip" Demczak during the 2008 Annual Banquet.  The award is named after the late William R. Carrow who was a Past Chief & President of the company.  The award was presented by President William R. Carrow II.  During his speech President Carrow talked about how in his short time in this department Skip had made such a big impact.  Talked about his willingness to always help around the station and help the young members.  During 2008 Skip attended 227 fire alarms, 9 fund raisers, 83 misc points, 19 company drills, 9 uniform functions, and 8 company meetings for a total of 291 points.  The officers and members of the Clayton Fire Company would like to congratulate Skip on his award.

This years Steven Turner Memorial award was presented to Dylan Chambers during the 2008 Annual Banquet.  The award is named after Steven Turner who at the age of 17 was taken from us by cancer.  The award is given to the junior members who "trys the hardest".  The award was presented by Chief Wes Davis.  During his speach Chief Davis spoke of how Dylan has become a valuable asset to the company.  How he is always willing to do whatever is asked of them with no complaints and how he is always eager to learn.  During the year Dylan attended 180 alarms, 39 misc functions, 10 company drills, 7 company meetings for a total of 276 points.  The officers and members of the fire company would like to congratulate Dylan for his award.

Saturday evening December 20th the company and its ladies auxiliary held its annual appreciation banquet.  The event was attended by 240 members, and invited guest.  The excellent meal was catered by Brockstons Caterers of Middletown De.  The master of ceremonies for the event was Bill Webb who is the Executive Director of the Congressional Fire Service Institute.  During the event the company recognized it officers from this year and the coming year, recognized a new life member Robert J. Davis, awarded its Junior Fireman of the Year, Firefighter of the Year, and Fireman of the Year.  The ladies recognized their officers from this year, and those for the coming year, award a certificate of appreciation and plaque to outgoing Treasure Mary Kelley for her 17 years of service to that office.  The men were presented gifts from the ladies auxiliary and the Town of Clayton.  Outgoing Chief Wes Davis was presented with his Past Chiefs ring and a gift from the company. Outgoing President Skip Carrow was presented his Past Presidents watch and a gift from the company.  Firefighter Ashley Wilson was presented a resolution by Kent County Levy Court President P. Brooks Banta recognizing her being picked earlier this year as one of 10 recipients of Dunkin Brands Junior Firemans Scholarship award.  Out going State Rep. from the 8th District Bethany Hall-Long was presented a plaque from the fire company for all her support over the last several years while serving this area.  Rep. Hall-long will become Sen. Hall-Long in January.  The Clayton Fire Company and its Ladies Aux. would like to thank everyone who attended this years event.  They would like to especially like to thank the standby crews from Harrington Fire Co. and the Hartly Fire Co.     

The Smyrna/Clayton July Fourth Association held its annual Christmas parade on Saturday December 20 in Clayton.  The fire company participated with an Engine, Ladder, Rescue and the Gator. 

On a cold blustery Saturday afternoon members of the Clayton/Smyrna Police Departments and Clayton Fire Company came together for a charity flag football game for the Toys for Tots.  A tough battle was fought by both sides but in the end the police came out on top by a score of 28 to 19.  The main reason for the event was to collect toys for the Toys for Tots program, donations were received from those who attended.  The event was able to collect over 3 large boxes of toys and close to $400.00.  Both teams would like to thank all those that helped with this event; especially The Smyrna School District, D by D Printing LLC., Honey Dipper, Emily Hodgeman, Townsend Fire Co. (for the ambulance crew) and the referees.   Coach of the team was Jeff Lightcap, and Asst. Coach was Rodney Whalen.  The members of the team were; Joe Masten, Dave Ross, Mike Mareno, Allen Thompson, Ken Rife, Gary Everage, Dylan Chambers, Pat Kelleher, Tucker Dempsey, Joe Jones, John Pridemore, Brian Johnson, Robbie Johnson, Eric Eide, Darren Reece, Shaun Arterbridge, Alex Carrow, Wade McNatt. 

At the regular monthly meeting of the fire company on December 9th John Pridemore was named member of the month.  During the month John attend the following 14 out of 22 fire calls, 6 fund raising functions, 5 misc points, 2 drills and the company meeting for a total of 31 points for the month of November 2008.  John has accumulated a total of 327 points for the year 2008.  Thanks you to John  and all the members for their hard work and dedication.

Immediately following the regular monthly meeting on December 9th the new officers for the company were installed.  The installation was performed by Past Chief and current DVFA 1st Vice President Kevin Wilson who installed the mens officers for the coming year.  The installation was a joint event with the ladies and was followed with a dinner served by the ladies.

Administrative Officers

President          John M. Pirdemore

Vice President Rodney W. Whalen

Secretary          Robert Faulkner

Treasurer          Harvey W. Scott III

Directors          Richard A. Chase Sr., James J. Hurlock, Gary Faulkner

Asst. Sec.        Kenneth A. Virdin, Jr.

Asst. Treas.    Jennifer Pase

Personnel      Cindy Scott

Fire Line Officers

Fire Chief                William R. Carrow II

Deputy Chief         Jeffrey A. Hurlock

1st Asst. Chief     Joseph Masten

2nd Asst. Chief   Robert J. Lightcap

Engine Captain  John Pase

Ladder Captain  David Ross

Engine Captain  Michael Lucas

Rescue Captain Robert J. Davis

Safety Officer       Rodney W. Whalen

Fire Recorder     Beth McClements

 Also assisting the line officers this year are:

Chief Engineer:  Roland Timmons, Asst. Fire Recorder:  Joe Jones,Crew Leaders: Mike Harrinton,  Alex Carrow, Robbie Johnson, Ray Johnson, Asst. to the EMS Officer: Dave Carroll