D.O. Payette honoured for 'untiring efforts' when he retired as Chapleau Fire Chief in 1946

When D.O. Payette retired as Chapleau Fire Chief in 1946, he received a letter which honoured him for his "untiring efforts" and years of service to the volunteer fire brigade.

As I write, most of British Columbia where I now live is in a "state of emergency" as a result of wildfires which have resulted in evacuation alerts, and evacuations of some communities. At various times in its history, Chapleau has faced a similar situation, as well as serious fires within the community.

Although the letter of thanks was directed to Mr. Payette, it struck me that its message applies to men and women like him, full-time and part-time who are first responders to this day. We owe all of them a debt of gratitude.

For example, the letter noted, in paying tribute to Mr. Payette that "To give time when convenient is easy; but fire does not strike when it is convenient. Whether night or day, you answered the call that you might not only be a good fireman, but help to save the lives and property of others".

It added: "That is the true spirit of human interest is the welfare of others and we are sure that all the people whose homes and lives of their loved ones you helped to protect will always remember the active part which you played on their behalf."

Mr. Payette had joined the fire department when it was officially formed in 1910, and was named Chief in 1935.

"Through your ambition, conscientious service and aptitude to learn the essentials of a successful fireman you were named Chief in 1935.

"You were not like the little boy who told the teacher he was content to stay at the bottom of the class. Through untiring efforts you arrived at the top and we firemen who were guided, disciplined and taught by you, will always show the result in executing our duties as volunteer firemen."

The letter noted that through Mr. Payette's direction and initiative the Chapleau brigade had won awards of merit during the annual Fire Prevention Week. The Office of the Fire Marshal was also pleased, as were insurance companies.

It also acknowledged that Mr. Payette's great contribution was made  while he was also busy with his own business. At the time he was president of Smith and Chapple Ltd.

"The municipal council, the entire population appreciate how unsparingly you gave of your time to the Fire company while already busy with your own business, your family obligations and your other offices."

Three chiefs Ad Andrews, George Collinson, Mr Payette

George Collinson succeeded Mr. Payette as Fire Chief. The letter was signed by Reeve Frank Edwards, members of council, members of the fire brigade and other citizens. My email is mj.morris@live.ca

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MM