Westport Island firefighter James Richardson (center) is the first recipient of the Newman Award in honor of late Lincoln County Fire Academy Chairman Mike “Newman” Santos. From left: academy Vice Chairman Dave Pratt, Paula Santos, Richardson, Westport Island Fire Chief Bob Mooney, and academy Chairman Roger Whitney. |
At the regular meeting of the Lincoln County Fire Chiefs Association June 17, the Lincoln County Fire Academy presented the Newman Award to James Richardson, of the Westport Island Fire Department.
Richardson was a student in the Lincoln County Fire Academy Basic Firefighter class last winter and spring.
The Newman Award is in memory of Newcastle Assistant Fire Chief Mike Santos, who passed away last December. Santos’ nickname was “Newman” because, when he first came to the department, he called himself the “new man.” His passion was for training firefighters and he was chair of the academy for several years.
The Newman Award is given to one member of the fire academy class who shows outstanding performance in academy classes, is helpful before and after class, volunteers for extra duty, and shows outstanding leadership.
The Lincoln County Fire Academy is very pleased with the first recipient of the award. Richardson reflects great credit upon himself, his fire department, and the fire service.
