30 Years of Service

My husband and I went to the Roanoke City Service Awards Dinner in Roanoke Wednesday night. The event honors city employees who have been employed in five-year increments.

It was held at the Holiday Inn behind WDBJ7. I used to call it the Airport Holiday Inn but I don't know if that is the official name. We could smell the garlic from the kitchen far out into the parking lot.

From left: Deputy Chief Jeff Beckner and Roanoke Fire-EMS Chief David Hoback.

Fire Marshall Daniel Rakes, and the crowd gathering for the meal.

My husband, who was off duty and thus not in uniform, greeted a number of other fire-ems personnel during the event.

A little food porn. The salad, I think, was the only thing *not* smothered in garlic.

I did not eat the chicken because I could smell the garlic on it, and I have ulcers so thought it might be best to leave it, but the beans, carrots, and 'taters were good (though I think also full of garlic).

Roanoke City Mayor David Bowers was master of ceremony. Employees who had served 25 years or more received some kind of recognition.

My husband, Battalion Chief James Firebaugh, listened while the mayor recited highlights of his career. James joined the fire service in February 1983.

The mayor gave him a nice little plaque to commemorate his service.

 

My husband is a humble man, an everyday hero who has risked his life several times to save someone else. He is a hard worker and good provider who loves deeply. He cares about the land we live on and the people we engage. I am very proud of him.