NZ Fire Service Honours Night

No sooner did we open the door and unpack, I was off running around looking for a dress uniform. The reason being was that the lads at the station were having an awards night to acknowledge their accomplishments within the fire service and to wish Ray and I and our families farewell.

A regular suit was no good because they were having formal fire brigade photos taken. Since both Ray and I were part of the station this past year, they wanted us in a dress uniform. Thanks to all the guys, I managed to pull together a formal uniform. The only thing that belonged to me that night were my socks and my underwear!

After the pictures were taken we headed off to the social hall up stairs where we enjoyed drinks and snacks. After that we took our seats and the speeches commenced. Apparently it had been a long time since the last ceremomy had been held since they ackowledged a total of +700 years of service.

Seeing all the guys dressed up and wearing their medals was quite a sight. I was sort of wishing Ottawa would take the same stance for their guys, not just the lads with 20 + years but rather even the guys with 3 years. It really has a great effect on the moral of the brigade.

When the last guy received his award they took a little break, during which time the refreshments and food were served. A short while later Ray and I were called to the front with our wives. The NZ Fire Service presented all of us with very generous gifts. A plaque commemorating the year service, an official All Blacks rugby jersey and a beautiful greenstone necklace for Kathy and Ray's wife Linda. WE were deaply touched.

It was the perfect time for all of us to express our sincere thanks. Not just for giving us the opportunity to be here but also for welcoming and treating us like family and for helping us out throughout our entire stay. So we did.

Thanks again lads and to those of you on blue watch - YOU ROCK!!