New Albany firefighters, families enjoy annual Christmas social

New Albany firefighters, their families and retired firemen enjoyed their annual Christmas social Friday night, December 9.

Fire Chief Mark Whiteside gave recognition to several firefighters.

Retired Captain Bobby Simmons (R), with Chief Whiteside

Perhaps the most popular award of the evening went to retired New Albany Fire Captain Bobby Simmons. Simmons was honored as NAFD’s “Grandfather of the Year.” Whiteside recalled that Simmons could always be recognized on the department’s communication radios by the way he pronounced New Albany. Simmons consistently pronounced it “New-ALLL’-bennie.” Captain Simmons, accepting the award, said he guessed from now on he’d have to pronounce the town’s name the conventional way.

Lt Eddie Latham, Fire Officer of the Year

Fire Lieutenant Eddie Latham received double honors. Latham was named Fire Officer of the Year and was also recognized for 25 years of service with NAFD.

Richie Bryant honored for 25 years’ service

Richie Bryant was also recognized for a quarter century of service to the fire department Chief Whiteside said Bryant is the department’s rescue specialist and handles training for rescue operations.

Chris Whiteside was honored for 15 years of service as a fireman.

American LaFrance type 99 pumper & hose motor car. Wonder what it cost in 1928? Check out the NAFD history PDF below.

The Fire Chief told the group he is working on assembling a history of the New Albany Fire Department. He has researched city records and received help from retired firefighters and others. Whiteside said the work thus far is through the year 1928.

A draft of the fire chief’s work thus far on the History of the New Albany Fire Department may be read by clicking here: NAFD History to 1928