by Town Historian Al Dumas
This year marks the 100th anniversary of the Sullivan County Volunteer Firefighters Association. As President, I am both proud and grateful to serve as the Association’s 93rd President, representing the fire companies and dedicated members of every department throughout Sullivan County.
As we celebrate this historic milestone and reflect on a century of service, dedication, and community, we also take time to honor the legacy of those who helped shape our organization and the fire service throughout Sullivan County.
This memorial tribute captured by Firehouse Road was filmed on Friday, May 1st at the Sullivan County Government Center and was presented in honor of the members we have lost and in recognition of their lasting service and sacrifice to their communities.
On a personal note, I would especially like to remember former New York State Chief Judge Lawrence H. Cooke, who served as Association President in 1959 and was also a proud member of the Monticello Fire Department. Judge Cooke was my mentor and the person who inspired and encouraged me to join the Monticello Fire Department. His guidance, leadership, and friendship left a lasting impact on both my life and my service.
Judge Cooke passed away on August 17, 2000.