After 15 years as the fire chief, Rod Appleby is stepping down from his role with the Caronport Fire Department. 

Appleby joined the volunteer fire department in 1979 under former Chief Royden Taylor. He would be named chief in 2008. He announced that he would be stepping down a fire chief this year. 

Also a high school teacher, Appleby received the Governor General’s Fire Services Exemplary Service Medal in 2019. Although he is stepping down as fire chief, he will remain an active member of the fire department. 

“He goes above and beyond for the community out here. He’s mentored a lot of firefighters who have gone on to become professional paramedics and firefighters in other communities as well as in different parts of the country and the United States,” said Deputy Chief Matthew Nancarrow. 

Nancarrow added that Appleby has been charitable throughout his firefighting career. 

“He’s also a big supporter of Firefighters Without Borders, who ship expired and equipment that we can’t use down to countries who don’t have any equipment. That’s all sent to them so they have some equipment to use for firefighting in their countries,” Nancarrow said. 

To honour Appleby, the fire department, the Village of Caronport and Rural Municipalities 162 and 163 are holding a gala on Saturday at The Landing in Caronport. 

There are two ways you can attend the festivities. You can purchase a $10 ticket (kids under six are free) from one of the Caronport Fire Department members or by calling or texting 306-631-4374 to enjoy a full roast beef supper. 

The other way you can attend is by dropping in, no ticket required, for the presentations later in the evening. 

The doors open at 6 p.m. with the supper at 6:30 and the presentations will begin around 7:30. 

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