Editor’s note: this week we were reminded (once again) that the men and women who serve our town on the front lines are the backbone of our community. Today, we salute our Ridgefield Professional Firefighters who, fifty years ago, joined together in solidarity.
The Town of Ridgefield is extremely fortunate to have full time, paid firefighters and paramedics on duty 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. This wasn't always the case. Five decades ago, dedicated Ridgefielders decided to bring this gift of safety and life to our community.
On November 30, 1967, ten Ridgefield men signed their union charter forming the IAFF Local 1739. They became affiliated with the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), the driving force behind nearly every advance in the fire and emergency services in the 21st century in both America and Canada.
Last night Ridgefield Professional Firefighters and community members gathered at Anthony’s Lake Club in Danbury to celebrate their service and brotherhood - a monumental occasion, the 50th Anniversary of the signing of their union charter forming the IAFF Local 1739.
The video HERE will give you chills and pays tribute to the work these amazing individuals engage in every day.
Thank you to the men and women who courageously and faithfully serve our community. You are our heroes.
Photo #1 shows the past chiefs of the Ridgefield Professional FD standing with the original IAFF Local 1739 charter: left to right are chief Tappe, chief Meyers (current chief), chief Yarrish, chief Dingee, Chief Nagle
Photo #2 was taken in May 1971 and features some familiar old-time Ridgefielders: Jack Mitchell, Willie Warner, Gary Frulla, Frank Santini, Robert Marinelli, Dick McGlynn, Ricky Fortin, Si Tarsi, Vinnie Pancotti, Jack Sullivan, Richie Brown, Nick Gaeta, Evo Falcinelli, and Mike Califano.