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Sayville Fire Department Firemen Of The Year
By Firefighter Wendy Liu
October 23, 2009
The Fire Police Squad in the Sayville Fire Department is mostly made up of men who have proudly served as firemen over the years, but who have taken on a different role as they've matured. They still respond to alarms in all kinds of weather and during all hours of the day and night. They are often the first to arrive at a scene and the last to leave. Several of those Fire Police members were recently awarded the Sayville Fire Department's Fireman of the Year Award for their commitment and dedication to the Department and to the community.
Clarence "Bubby" Verspoor, who was also bestowed the honor of being named "Honorary Chief" this year, has been the Captain of Sayville's Fire Police Squad since 2003. Verspoor joined the Department's "Juveniles" at the age of 8 and then became a probationary member at the age of 18 in 1947. Bubby has been an active member in the Department since joining with the exception of the two years he spent in the Army during the Korean War. Verspoor has served in the Fire Police Squad since 1977. He is very proud of the residents of Sayville who treat Fire Police members with respect and who are very cooperative. He takes pride in his job and knows that his Squad is relied upon by responding firefighters who depend on them to ensure that they are not hit by moving vehicles.
Arthur "Artie" Pryer, who passed away last year, joined the Sayville Fire Department in 1965. He remained active until 1979, when he had to resign due to work commitments. The Sayville Fire Department remained in his heart and when his work responsibilities lessened, he rejoined the department and shortly after became a member of the Fire Police Squad, where he was elected Lieutenant. Artie joked that when he left the room for a moment, he came back and was told that he was elected Lieutenant. When members reminisce about Artie, they remember how he always had a smile on his face and could often be seen whistling, singing or dancing around. He is sorely missed.
Nick Campson, who has been a member of the Sayville Fire Department since 1965, is a Lieutenant in the Fire Police Squad. He was also named Firefighter Of The Year by the Hook & Ladder Company this year. He served 22 years as a Commissioner and has been the Treasurer for the Sayville Fire District for over ten years. In the early 80s, while Campson was Chairman of the Board of Commissioners, he was instrumental in securing for $1 the 5 ½ acre site on Broadway where the Sayville Fire Department Station 2 building now stands. At the age of 82, Nick is as sharp as a tack and in great shape. Nick responded to 171 alarms last year. That's dedication!
Three Fireman Of The Year Awards
Chief Lawrence Sesso, Honorary Chief Clarence “Bubby” Verspoor, Ex-Chief Roy Verspoor, Fire Police Lt. Nick Campson, Artie’s Son Jonathan Pryer, 1st Asst. Chief Thomas Pantano, 2nd Asst. Chief Michael Butler, Artie’s Wife Carol Pryer
