The Town Crier: Local News: Gary Hill retires from fire department (07/20/10)

Manila Fireman Gary Hill was honored Thursday night with a retirement celebration and dinner at the firehouse. Members of the Fire Department and retired firefighters, along with family members, gathered to show their gratitude to Gary for his 17 years of service on the Manila Fire Department.

Retiring firefighter Gary Hill pictured with his grandchildren, Caden, Emma, Riley and Luke, and Fire Chief Keith Bennett.
(Town Crier photos/Revis Blaylock)

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Gary is a Manila native. He joined the fire department on July 13, 1993. He has been an EMT for 25 years.

Hill said working on the ambulance service and being an EMT goes hand in hand with the fire department.

He is retiring due to health problems.

Gary Hill receives plaque from Manila Fire Chief Keith Bennett.

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"I wish I could stay on the fire department longer but I have enjoyed the years I have served," Gary said.

Even though he is retiring as a firefighter, he has plans to work with the department any way he can. He is certified to teach some classes and has plans to continue working in training with the First Responders.

"I have worked with some really good guys in the Manila Fire Department," Gary said.

Hill said he may have had a part in Fire Chief Keith Bennett being an EMT and serving on the fire department today.

Retired firemen, firemen and family members joined in honoring Gary Hill at his retirement dinner. Pictured are Carroll and June Towell, Monte Middleton, Allen McCullough and William Barnhart.

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"When he was younger he would be visiting at our home and when I got an emergency call, he would go with me," Gary said.

Hill said he is happy to see the new fire station and is looking forward to the arrival of the new truck.

"I appreciate Mayor Clifford Veach and the council for approving a new fire truck," Gary said.

Hill and his wife, Angie, have three grown daughters and six grandchildren. Their daughters are Tonya Boyd, Barbie Whitehead and Holly Kirk.

Angie said she plans on retiring the scanner, also.

Chief Bennett presented Gary with a plaque in appreciation of his years of dedicated service to the Manila Fire Department.

"The Manila Fire Department appreciates the invaluable service Gary has given, "Chief Bennett said. "He will be greatly missed on the department. I have known him for a long time. He is a great fireman and a great brother to all of us. We are proud to have had him as a member of the Manila Fire Department. We wish him the best in his retirement."

A steak dinner was served to the firemen and the guests.