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The
trophy named after Donald Macleod (Domhnall Leezy) is awarded annually to
the person or group who in the opinion of the Committee has done most to
assist the Group over the previous 12 months.
This
year the unanimous choice was the Fire Section, Stornoway Airport. From its
inception in 2003 the Airport Firemen have undertaken preparation of the
site for the Annual Show by cutting the grass, which at that time of year is
at its maximum height. The Firemen also came along with a fire tender to
fill the storage tank with water for use in the toilets. The Group are also
indebted to HIAL for their kind permission for use of the site for all the
previous shows.
On
Saturday 28 March 2009, Calum Maclennan and myself, accompanied by a
newspaper reporter, went to the Airport to do the presentation about
mid-day. We were welcomed into the Fire Section premises and right away
treated to tea or coffee and biscuits in their Rest Room. I posed for a
photo opportunity alongside Section Leader James Murray, with the trophy in
front of us. After this, we moved outside to do the presentation at the
side of one of the Fire Tenders. The rest of the Firemen lined up behind us
for a photograph. James Murray asked us if we wanted to see the whole
set-up they have and sent Fireman Martin on a conducted tour with us.
Martin gave us details of the various equipment they have and how it is
used. On the tour, we were able to talk to other members of the Section.
From the Fire Section premises he drove us along to the hangar, where we
were able to view a variety of vehicles, helicopters and a few small
planes. Calum was armed with a camera and took full advantage of the photo
opportunity.
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I was impressed in more ways than one: the mystery of what went on in
that area of the Airport was dispelled in one visit. A more lasting
impression with me, and I am sure Calum will agree, was that here were a
bunch of lads who were welcoming, friendly and obliging. Now I
understand how come the grass was cut and the water delivered.
As we departed, James Murray extended an invitation to WITPG to pay them
a visit. Personally, I would be delighted to take up their offer.
Thanks again to HIAL and especially the Fire Section.
James MacLeod, Chairman |
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