Surprise, Generosity,

and Appreciation

To the Editor:

I would like to take this opportunity to thank Chief William Halstead and the members of the Sandy Hook Volunteer Fire and Rescue Co. for their generosity in giving me a surprise retirement party on March 31, 2001.

I retired formally January 15, 2001, after 32 years of being a Newtown Deputy Fire Marshal and Fire Marshal. Greatly appreciated were the gifts they presented to me, including an official citation for 48 years of active service with the fire department. Additionally, many thanks to Kevin Cragin for being master of ceremonies and for presenting me with an official citation from the Board of Fire Commissioners. With much gratitude, I received a certificate of appreciation from the Town of Newtown presented by Selectman H. Rosenthal for dedicated service to the town. I also received an official citation from the State of Connecticut General Assembly introduced by Representative Julia Wasserman, 106th District, and Senator John McKinney, 28th District. I would also like to extend a thank you to Newtown Hook and Ladder and the Connecticut Fire Marshal’s Association for plaques they presented to me.

I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to my family and friends who attended the celebration as well as to those who contributed and could not attend. Although I have stepped down as Newtown’s Fire Marshal, I will still be active within the community as a Deputy Fire Marshal. 

Sincerely,

George F. Lockwood, Sr.

9 Pine Street, Sandy Hook                                         May 23, 2001