Edward Donaghy is the 2019 Firefighter of the Year. (Submitted photo/Keaton Cloud)

By Derek Cornet

Award Ceremony

Donaghy named Firefighter of the Year

Jan 29, 2020 | 11:55 AM

Edward Donaghy has been named Firefighter of the Year for 2019.

He was given the distinction earlier this month at the La Ronge Regional Fire Department’s annual awards ceremony. All the firefighters had a chance to vote who would receive the special title for going beyond the call of duty and Donaghy had the most support among members.

“I’m just really pleased because it’s kind of a recognition,” Donaghy said. “I was really pleased and happy the other guys on the team had thought enough of me to put my name forward for it.”

Donaghy joined the fire department back in 2017 after he heard they were looking for new members. Being an older person than some of the other firefighters, he was unsure if he’d be accepted but Donaghy said he was told he could join as long as he had the fitness and could keep up with the training.

In the last few years, Donaghy noted it has been an interesting experience, the training has been good, he’s had a chance to be involved in the community and fight fires. While he completed his Level 2 training in the summer, Donaghy would like to continue his education and learn to take command.

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“It’s basically the whole team there … who help you achieve what you want to achieve,” he said. “It’s all about teamwork. You’re only as good as the team around you and Chief Wayne Tchorzewski gave me a lot of support, and the new deputy as well who is acting-chief at the moment.”

Two other members were also honoured for the achievements at the ceremony with Lionel McKenzie given the award for Most Active Firefighter for 2019 and Lt. Derek Konga received the award for Most Active Member for 2018. Konga also received a five-year service pin.

Lionel McKenzie was the Most Active Firefighter for 2019. (Submitted photo/Keaton Cloud)

Lt. Derek Konga was the Most Active Firefighter for 2018. (submitted photo/Keaton Cloud)

“I’m proud to have not only these three members on the fire department but also the rest of the team,” Acting-Chief Keaton Cloud said. “They are all dedicated and ready to serve their communities when needed.”

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derek.cornet@jpbg.ca

Twitter: @saskjourno