The Municipality of Lakeshore and Lakeshore Fire Department celebrated local firefighters at an event on Thursday, September 18, 2025, at the Atlas Tube Recreation Centre. Members of Council, staff, and family members attended the event which recognized the service of firefighters as well as their ongoing contributions to Lakeshore's communities.
"I am filled with pride and admiration for the service of our firefighters. They are the first on scene to support people as they deal with unspeakable tragedy,” said Mayor Tracey Bailey. “But I also know their work extends beyond tragedy. They are role models and active members of our communities, contributing their time and efforts to countless local fundraisers and charities. We appreciate all that they do for Lakeshore and our residents.”
The event started with a graduation and badge ceremony for the 2024 class of firefighters, who have undergone extensive training and testing to prepare for their service.
“The training you have completed is not just about skills — it is about forging character, resilience, and teamwork. From this moment forward, you are part of something greater than yourselves: a brotherhood and sisterhood built on trust, sacrifice, and the shared mission of protecting others,” said Lakeshore Fire Chief Jason Suchiu. “You’ve earned your place in our service, and we welcome you with open arms into this family.”
Newly graduated firefighter, Cassandra Aarssen, addressed the room on behalf of her classmates.
“We know that we can count on each other; we are a united front, we combine our skills, and we work together as one, with unwavering trust and dedication to one another,” Aarssen said. “I hope all of us always remember how lucky we are to be members of the Lakeshore Fire Family. We get to help when our community, we get to save lives. Being a firefighter isn’t just a job. It is an honour, a responsibility, and a calling.”
Following the graduation, an awards ceremony recognized long serving and past members, as well as retirees. These firefighters represented more than 450 combined years of service to Lakeshore.
The event concluded with the presentation of three new awards. The awards were created to recognize individuals who consistently go above and beyond in their dedication as well as the commitment to community service extending beyond emergency response.
- District Chief Joe Derikx received the Legacy Leadership Award, which recognizes a firefighter who exemplifies leadership, mentorship, and commitment to become the best they can in their growth while also always being positive in uplifting others.
- Mike Sisic received the Heart of the Community Award, which honours a firefighter who exemplifies empathy, inclusivity, and unwavering dedication while striving to support members of the community who may face hardship.
- Chantelle Bacon received the Orange Shield Trailblazer Award, which is given to a new firefighter (recruit or probationary firefighter) who fully embraces their role and shows perseverance, dedication, and going beyond learning the basics.
Lakeshore Fire Graduates, Class of 2024
- Station 1: Mitchell DiLuca
- Station 2: Tim Arsenault, Eric Jobin, Aydan Paisley
- Station 3: Chantelle Bacon, Jillian Deimling, Vincent Desfosses, Hunter Laforest, Ethan Vaillancourt
- Station 4: Cassandra Aarssen, Nathan Deneweth, McKenzie McMillan
- Station 5: Owen Loma, Jacob Hamelin
Long Service Award Recipients
- 25 Years: Chris Brigley, Keith Carter, Bill Fuerth
- 30 Years: Reid McMurren, Rob Armstrong, Mark Robitaille, Jeff Gervais, Christine Lassaline
- 35 Years: Steve Little
Past Members and Retirees
- Station 1: Jim Lefaive (16 years)
- Station 2: Bill Granger (17 years), Jeremie Beausoleil (19 years), Bill Fuerth (26 years)
- Station 3: Jamie Osborn (3 years), Rob Armstrong (30 years), Mike Aubin (31 years)
- Station 5: Chris Smith (3 years), Shawn Bedard (9 years), Rob Hammond (10 years), Wayne Morris (40 years)