Editor, The Record:
An open letter to District of Mission and Mission Fire/Rescue Service:
On April 15-16 I had the rare privilege of witnessing events unfold as all of the members of the Mission Fire/Rescue Service said farewell to one of their own. I am referring to the funeral services for the late Fire Chief Frank Ryan.
Frank was a very close friend of mine for over 30 years and to witness this wonderful event first hand was truly amazing. In my opinion, the department, under the guidance of Chief Ian Fitzpatrick, went above and beyond what might have been expected to say good bye to their past chief and friend, and for that they have earned my greatest respect and admiration.
The amount of detail, preparation and execution that went in to this event was simply outstanding. I don’t think there was one detail overlooked as the department showed their great appreciation for a departed member of their family. The cooperation between the Mission and Abbotsford fire departments is also worthy of mention with Abbotsford pitching in to cover fire protection services during the funeral proceedings as well as an aerial apparatus to help with parade activities and uniformed members marching in the parade. So to Abbotsford, as well I say thank you.
To the citizens of Mission, the district administration team and council, I just want to pass on my sincere congratulations for your continued efforts to support such an outstanding department. They definitely gave my buddy Frank a fine send off. You must be just so very proud of them all.
In closing, I want to say to all that I met, and to all those who worked so hard to make this event the great success that it was, Bravo Zulu from an old Navy guy for a job well done. Mission, you and your fire department are simply the best.
Jim Ennis
Royal Canadian Navy (ret.) and City of Yorkton Fire Department (ret.)
