Jerry Adams receives firefighter honours

By Susan Hofforth

Recently, the fire department honoured one of its own with an Exemplary Service Award for 20 years of service. Jerry Adams was given his 10-year bar with the Whitecourt Fire Department and his 20-year, long-time service medal on Sunday, May 24.

Adams was thrilled with the award. “I never expected it. Chief Wynn put this altogether keeping it a big surprise. It means a lot to me; it shows me how much this department thinks of its members.”

He started with the Whitecourt Fire Department in 2008. Previously he had been a part of another fire department, and he missed the camaraderie of the team and the adrenalin rush that he got when responding to incidents, as well as the challenges the calls present.

“My wife encouraged me to reapply,” he said. “Debra and our daughter Patty play a big part in my ability to do this. Debra understands there will be some long calls. She supports me all the way. But, just like everything, there are times it gets in the way of life.”

Balancing all aspects of his life as a firefighter is a constant juggling act. “You have to be the judge of what’s best for you and the family,” he said. “Not all your decisions will get you brownie points.”

The juggle is worth it. “As a firefighter, you keep coming back because of the sense of pride that you get from belonging to such a great organization, and the belief that you can make a difference in someone’s life.”

“Being a firefighter has lived up to all my expectations,” he continued. “Action pictures are good, so why not be in the real thing? There’s nothing more challenging, physically and mentally.”

Adams plans to continue with this department as far as he can go. “I believe this department has a great impact on the community. It has a great officer core from the Chief down, and a terrific unit of dedicated firefighters.”