SOUTH PORTLAND, Maine – South Portland (Maine) Fire Department’s Thornton Heights Engine Company 6 (E-6 Company) is celebrating 100 years of serving the City of South Portland.
Established in 1923, the E-6 Company is one of two remaining call companies in South Portland. The E-6 company is comprised of 26 volunteer, part-time firefighters, which includes two paramedics, two advanced EMTs, and 14 Basic Emergency Medical Technicians. The Thornton Heights call company members provide critical service throughout the City by responding to fires, medical emergencies, alarm soundings, and providing station coverage. Last year, E-6 Company responded to 473 calls for service.
“Dedicated members of the Thornton Heights E-6 Company have been volunteering their time and skills to keep South Portland safe for a century,” said Philip Viola, Engine 6 Company Captain. Captain Viola explained that most who serve in the Company live in South Portland, provide a critical service to the community, and enjoy what they do. “We’re very proud to be celebrating this milestone and continuing this longstanding and vital tradition.”
Many serving today have been part of the Company for a number of years. Firefighter Lou Perreault, E-6’s longest serving member, has been a volunteer firefighter with the Company for 52 years. “Firefighting gets in your blood. I, and others who do this work, enjoy providing citizens with a life-saving and property-saving service. It is extremely rewarding,” said Perreault.
As part of its 100th Anniversary celebration, the E-6 Company is offering commemorative items for sale. Wall hangings, specialty coins, and stickers are available. The funds raised will support the upkeep of the Company’s antique 1941 fire truck, events, and more. To learn more and order 100th Anniversary items, contact Steven Hayworth at steven@hayworth.com or (207) 650-3294.
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