Letter to the Editor: Somerset firefighters appreciate funding, vote of confidence

Regarding the Somerset Fire Department receiving the SAFER grant: We would like to recognize the Somerset Board of Selectmen. They have always spoken words of praise toward the Somerset firefighters in the job we do. By putting their signature on the approval accepting the grant, they put their words into actions. They truly have shown a commitment to the safety of Somerset firefighters and the citizens we protect.

The union has worked closely with the fire department's administration, the town administrator and the Board of Selectmen in making this possible.

I would like to recognize the administrative assistant and union members who were part of the grant committee that wrote the grant: Lieutenant Aaron Fisher, Lieutenant John Soares, Firefighter John Sulyma, Firefighter Rob Durette and Administrative Assistant Susan Welker.

It has been over 60 years since an increase in manpower here in Somerset. In that time, the job has become much more technical and the call volume has grown exponentially.

We’re happy that we are moving closer to the National Fire Protection Association standard for initial response for the fire service.

Rob Durette

President

Somerset Firefighters local 2649