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It was the last day at the Cobourg Firehall on Thursday, June 27, 2019 for veteran firefighter Todd Wilson.
Wilson retired after over 33-years with the Cobourg Fire Department, 28 of those years as a full-time firefighter.
Starting part-time in December 1986, Wilson went full-time on February 4, 1991 and has been Captain since July 3, 1998.
Just moments before his final night shift ended at 8 a.m., the fire tones/pagers went off, but before the actual message was received, Wilson who was sitting in his chair calmly said, “see ya later boys.”
Little did he know the call would be for him.
A message was sent out from Peterborough Control to members of the Cobourg Fire Department
“We have a report of a 57-year-old male, approximately 5’10” with grayish hair and well rounded stature that is retiring after 33-years of service with the Cobourg Fire Department.”
After his shift, relaxing at his home, Wilson spoke to Today’s Northumberland about his journey of three decades with the fire service ending as Captain.
Stating he wouldn’t change a thing Wilson said, “the fire services has evolved with the times, but has kept the traditional values that keep the services strong for today and tomorrow.”
After working that long as a team, Wilson said what he’ll miss most are the people he’s worked with over the years, not only locally, but throughout Northumberland County.
“I’ll miss the team work that keeps the service strong as it has been.”
One thing he won’t miss – the paperwork.
As far as the largest fire in his many years, it is easily the Horizon Plastics fire in April of 2005 that saw approximately 100 firefighters at the scene trying to control the blaze.
But Wilson quickly adds, the most educational fire for him was an auditorium fire in the 1980’s at Victoria College on University Avenue East.
While at the fire, veteran firefighters education Wilson about how fire responds and stated in about three minutes flames would be coming out a number of windows.
“In three minutes there was flames coming out the windows – my jaw dropped.”
Wilson said it’s been a great career with the Cobourg Fire Department, but with the camaraderie of the fire service, there will always be tragic memories that goes with being a firefighter.
“Time flies. It doesn’t seem that long.”
Though he is retiring from one fire service, living south of Grafton he is still helping out with his experience as a volunteer firefighter with the Alnwick/Haldimand Fire Department.
Although there are no immediate plans in the future, Wilson said he’s looking forward to spending more time with his family and wife Marilyn.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
