Shawn McNaughton, who retired this past February after 20 years service, has been named St. Marys Fire Department's Firefighter of the Month for March.
"He has had an interesting and rewarding career as a firefighter and will become the recipient of the 20-year fire services exemplary service medal," says a news release issued by the Town of St. Marys.
“I was inspired to join the fire department and become a firefighter when I volunteered at the Fire Fighters Association of Ontario Convention that was held here in St. Marys in 2001,” says McNaughton. “I waited for a spot to open and about a year-and-a-half later, I was able to join. Helping other people was the best thing about the job, especially when they are having the worst time of their lives, being able to help them is a privilege. It has given me the opportunity to do so many things and help so many people that I wouldn’t normally get to do.”
McNaughton cites the construction of a new fire hall and the acquisition of a new 75 foot aerial ladder truck as the most significant changes he's seen through his 20-year career.
“One of my favourite memories was the time the fire department was given the opportunity to play a charity hockey game against the Maple Leaf Alumni players,” he said. “I really enjoyed organizing the event and giving back to the St. Marys community with the money we had raised.”
Currently employed as a sales representative at Radar Auto parts, McNaughton plans to spend retirement camping and dedicating his time to his fiancé Nita.
