Metcalf Honored

July 28, 2016 at 4:25 p.m.

By JEN GIBSON, Times-Union Staff Writer-

One person received two special awards Thursday night at the annual Kosciusko County Firemen's Association fish fry.

William "Bill" Metcalf, of North Webster, was recognized with an award from the state as well as from the North Webster Fire Department.

The 1997 Kosciusko County Fireman of the Year, Metcalf was awarded the Governor's Meritorious Service Award from Gary Robinson, deputy state fire marshal.

After Robertson presented the award, the North Webster Fire Department gave Metcalf a lifetime achievement award for 73 years of dedicated service.

Shaking his head in shocked disbelief, Metcalf listened to North Webster Fire Department spokesman Dave Dishman describe years of service and commitment to the department.

Metcalf was a member of the fire department before the North Webster bought its first firetruck, and served as chief for more than 30 years.

Then the department announced Metcalf's badge and fire service number, 726, were being retired in his honor. Metcalf was presented with a special trophy for his lifetime of service to the North Webster Fire Department. It is the first award of its kind awarded by the NWFD.

Once all the speeches were complete, Metcalf stepped to the podium and made a short speech.

Who did he thank most? His wife of 68 years, Lunetta.

"I wish she could be here tonight to see this," Metcalf said, choking back tears. [[In-content Ad]]

One person received two special awards Thursday night at the annual Kosciusko County Firemen's Association fish fry.

William "Bill" Metcalf, of North Webster, was recognized with an award from the state as well as from the North Webster Fire Department.

The 1997 Kosciusko County Fireman of the Year, Metcalf was awarded the Governor's Meritorious Service Award from Gary Robinson, deputy state fire marshal.

After Robertson presented the award, the North Webster Fire Department gave Metcalf a lifetime achievement award for 73 years of dedicated service.

Shaking his head in shocked disbelief, Metcalf listened to North Webster Fire Department spokesman Dave Dishman describe years of service and commitment to the department.

Metcalf was a member of the fire department before the North Webster bought its first firetruck, and served as chief for more than 30 years.

Then the department announced Metcalf's badge and fire service number, 726, were being retired in his honor. Metcalf was presented with a special trophy for his lifetime of service to the North Webster Fire Department. It is the first award of its kind awarded by the NWFD.

Once all the speeches were complete, Metcalf stepped to the podium and made a short speech.

Who did he thank most? His wife of 68 years, Lunetta.

"I wish she could be here tonight to see this," Metcalf said, choking back tears. [[In-content Ad]]

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