Senator Young stopped by a reception honoring Jeff Hatch (center), the Bemus Point Firefighter of the Year. Also pictured is Bemus Point Fire Chief Ryan Walker.

Volunteer firefighters make such an important contribution to rural communities. We can’t rely on a paid staff to support our fire departments. Instead, we rely on volunteers who drop what they are doing at a moment’s notice to help their neighbors when they are in danger. They are true heroes.

Thank you and congratulations to Jeff Hatch and thank you to all firefighters everywhere!