LOWER LAKE — Lake County Fire Protection District honored the service of various members of the department during its annual awards banquet, Saturday, April 19, at the Brick Hall in Lower Lake. Along with awards selected annually, the retirement of Assistant Fire Chief Richard “Bud” Moore was announced and celebrated.
The banquet began with introductions across the room, starting with Fire Chief Jim McMurray, whose presence was significant as he has been extremely sick for the past two months. McMurray said he”s been feeling better and was glad he was able to join in the evening”s celebration.
Following introductions and a delicious dinner served by members of Boy Scout Troop No. 44, the announcement of annual awards commenced. Fifteen-year veteran of the department, Bill Inman, was recognized as “Firefighter of the Year.” Inman was unable to attend the banquet and in his absence not only did he miss the presentation of his own award, but he also missed the presentation of the “Rookie of the Year” award, which went to his son, Billie Inman, Jr.
Assistant Fire Chief Bud Moore was commended for 40 years of dedicated service to the district. He was presented with his retirement badge and plaque thanking him for the commitment he displayed throughout his career. “He”s given 40 years of his life to this department and that means a lot,” said Chief McMurray, adding that around here they like to name things after people who contribute significantly to the integrity and wellbeing of the district. He said that the association has decided to name its scholarship fund after former Fire Chief Ford S. Denman and dedicate its ice machine to Bud.
“I really appreciate all you folks that I haven”t seen in years, being here and believe it or not, that ice machine means a lot to me. It”s the little things in life that mean so much,” Moore said.
Laughter erupted when Moore was presented with the “Agitator of the Month” paddle. “When you did something wrong you got put on the paddle and if you did something enough, you own it,” McMurray said as he handed the paddle over to Moore.
Moore spoke briefly before the crowd, thanking his family for their understanding of his responsibilities for the past 40 years. He spoke of delayed holidays and Christmas presents that were opened only after all the fires were out. Moore”s daughter Marty, said the habit has since become tradition and now as adult she makes her own children wait to open their gifts on Christmas morning.
Moore”s son Marshall also spoke on his father”s behalf and explained how his dad had first gotten involved with the department. He said his dad”s career had actually started with a bloody nose he had suffered when he was two weeks old. “My nose was bleeding for four hours,” Marshall Moore said, adding that medical personnel had responded. “He”s been with the fire department ever since.”
Several people shared stories about Moore. Some thanked him for inspiring them to great heights while others shared how his “bodily functions” had inspired them to leave the room. When all was said and done, the entire room shared in a hearty laugh.
Moore was given a $2,000 cash gift from the volunteer firefighters” association to enjoy in his retirement, which becomes official April 27.
Contact Denise Rockenstein at drockenstein@clearlakeobserver.com.
