Red is the color most synonymous with fire, and in Camillus Robert “Moe” Havranko is one of the people most synonymous with fighting fire.
With that reputation, it made sense that in honor of Havranko’s 40 years fighting fire and answering the community’s call, the Camillus Fire Department and Onondaga County Volunteer Firemen’s Association presented him with the Red Jacket of Distinction Award Wednesday July 15 during the annual OCVFA convention meeting.
CFD President Jesse Norcross said Havranko was selected for the award to recognize his length of service and the knowledge he provides fellow firefighters.
“He’s a walking encyclopedia,” Norcross said. “He has such a knowledge of not only the fire department but the history of different apparatus and different incidents at different buildings.”
Havranko has helped train many CFD drivers, and is “always around the station,” Norcross added. He was nominated for the OCVFA award by Norcross and the CFD, and received the honor to standing applause.
Also recognized Wednesday was Steve Kay, past chief of Warners Volunteer Fire Department, for his 50 years of service. Kay was presented with three awards for his lengthy commitment to the department and to volunteer fire fighting. Kay had been recognized previously by the Fireman’s Association of the State of New York for the accomplishment.
The awards were presented in front of firefighters, family and friends, at the Camillus Fire Station.
Photo by Colleen Kotars
Warners Volunteer Fire Dept Past Chief Steve Kay, left, who recently celebrated 50 years involvement in the volunteer fire service, displays one of three Citations awarded to him for this dedicated achievement. Presenting the award is Jeff Martin, 2nd Vice President of the Central New York Firemen’s Association.
