Indian River Recognizes Auxiliary Member for 50 Years of Service

The Indian River Volunteer Fire Company is pleased to announce that as the Auxiliary Celebrates its 70^th Anniversary, one of its members reaches her “Golden Anniversary’ which clearly marks half of a century serving her community and others.

Indian River wishes to recognize this volunteer for accumulating decades of achievements, years of memories, hours of laughter, and many periods of joy and happiness amongst multitudes of breakfasts, dinners, and countless events at the firehouse.  We all know that the Auxiliary could not have achieved this milestone without the endless devotion of its volunteers that have graciously assisted this organization.

Therefore, we chose to recognize a volunteer that has reached a golden milestone with the Auxiliary.  This volunteer has served in many capacities, held every office except President, and performed many functions without even being asked.  This volunteer has continually achieved and accomplished the success of many endeavors without fanfare and much ado.  The Auxiliary chooses to recognize her tireless dedication, diligent efforts, and endless spirit to complete the assigned task. 

It is extremely hard to quantify and place into words the achievements of one who has intentionally chosen to avoid the limelight but be the main staple holding everything together and completing every task as requested.  This volunteer has always chosen to pursue the objective with joy and laughter making every event successful and most of all "fun."

Since joining the Auxiliary in October 1972, she has devoted countless hours to this organization and community and has become an instrumental resource for many to seek reference and guidance.  Even joining the fire company and become a firefighter and apparatus operator often driving the rescue and tanker (tractor trailer truck) as needed.

As chair of many committees over the years and always having the best interest of the Auxiliary first and foremost in her organizational vision.  There is one known fact, this person will be amongst the working group putting plans, preparing and cooking food, and making it happen for the greater good. 

We have chosen this time to come together and recognize these extraordinary and exemplary efforts because there are no words to express our deep felt thankfulness for her years of service, compassion and friendship. Together, we recognize Leolga T. Wright and congratulate her on 50 years of service with the Auxiliary of the Indian River Volunteer Fire Company.  Her hard work, passion, and leadership have been pivotal to our success!

In addition to receiving a few fun appreciation gifts from the Auxiliary, Leolga Wright was presented the following items:

• Recognition and Gift from Auxiliary President Bonnie Rogers,

• Delaware House of Representatives Tribute presented by the Honorable Jeff Hilovsky, 4^th District Representative, and

• Delaware State Senate Tribute presented by Senator Gerald Hocker.

Auxiliary President Rogers tendered the following commentary … “ 50 years in the Auxiliary is a milestone to be celebrated and we, the auxiliary, wanted to recognize Leolga, for all her years of dedicated service to the auxiliary as well as her service to the fire company.

Going back 50 years, to the days of Emily Coulbourn, Alice Edwards, Ann Hall, Louise Mitchell, Irene Bowden, Anamae Rogers, Janie Norwood, and the original GOAT, “Miss Jean Moore.” You were taught by the best! You were taught commitment, hard work and “do it right the first time,” or your would get the “crooked finger.”   This company has reaped the rewards of all of those things, those ladies and so many more instilled upon you.

In appreciation, the Auxiliary would like to present a small token of our appreciation for your 50 years of dedication to our organization.  You have given many hints as to what you wanted for your 50 years and as always, we have come through.

In all seriousness, this gift represents the full complete circle you have made in this company.  From the auxiliary to the fire company.  Your hard work has not gone unnoticed and we all appreciate your unwavering commitment and dedication not only to the Auxiliary but to the fire company.

Leogla, thank you for all of your years of volunteerism and dedication.”