Four local heroes were honored during this week’s Chautauqua County Legislature meeting.
County Executive PJ Wendel issued four separate Certificates of Recognition to Steve Smouse, Mia Goot, Joe Pollaro and Arden Johnson.
Smouse is the first assistant chief of the Lakewood Fire Department. On March 11, there was a structure fire at 2481 and 2477 Keller Road in Busti. One home was destroyed and another was severely damaged. Seventy-eight individuals responded to the call, which impacted eight structures total. Smouth coordinated the response.
“This is an example of strong work ethic, leadership, and community dedication,” Wendel said.
Goot was honored for rescuing a Portland man from the Barcelona Harbor on March 29. “Heroics acts like this inspire kindness and solidarity across Chautauqua County. Her heroic actions are appreciated not only by the residents, myself but also the individual, whose life she saved,” Wendel said.
Longtime Lakewood Volunteer Firefighter Remembered | News, Sports, Jobs
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etichy@post-journal.com Local firefighters gathered Thursday to pay tribute to James Decker, a 50-year member of the Lakewood Fire Department who died April 16. A funeral service was held at the Falconer Funeral Home before a procession to Maple Grove Cemetery in Ashville.
P-J photos by Nikk Holland James Decker
Local firefighters gathered Thursday to pay tribute to James Decker, a 50-year member of the Lakewood Fire Department who died April 16. A funeral service was held at the Falconer Funeral Home before a procession to Maple Grove Cemetery in Ashville.
P-J photos by Nikk Holland
James Decker did just about everything during his 50-year career as a member of the Lakewood Volunteer Fire Department. At various times during that span he was an emergency medical technician, served as a pump operator, was an interior firefighter, member of the fire police, served as an assistant fire chief, was the finance secretary and curated the department’s museum.