Port Henry Chief is Firefighter of Year

Port Henry Fire Chief James Hughes has been named his department’s Firefighter of the Year.

In a surprise presentation by 1st Assistant Chief Ron Van Slooten Jr. at the department’s recent annual dinner, Hughes, with 30 years of fire service experience, was recognized and presented the award.

He was presented a firefighter statue engraved with his name, along with a gold uniform medal and a proclamation from Firemen’s Association of the State of New York President Robert McConnville marking this achievement.

About 75 people attended the banquet at the King’s Inn in Port Henry that recognized several members for many years of service to the department and community.

Hughes, organizer of the festivities, acted as master of ceremonies.

A special recognition was extended to Van Slooten for responding to 61 out of 89 fire calls in 2014. “The Bravest” firefighter’s plaque and an engraved Leatherman Tool were presented to him, marking his achievement.

Rookie of the Year was awarded to firefighter Christopher Lee, as selected by the chief officers of the department.