"Link" Hurgin Retires From the Fire Department After 35 Years

Leonard “Link” Hurgin is moving to Florida, and he said he is perhaps the first Hurgin in 150 years to leave Bethel for another state.  Hurgin won’t be leaving easily, even though he is looking forward to his retirement.

 The South Street Fire Department held an informal going away party for fireman Link, and his wife, Cathy.  Hurgin was moved to tears when one of the fire fighters handed him his fire gear, which he would take with him to Florida.  

 Hurgin made his way around the rooom, hugging one old friend after the next until Fire Chief Fred Ingram called Hurgin to present him with a plaque that read, 35 Years of Excellent Service.  

 According to Ingram, Hurgin was the oldest member on the roster and had twice been named Fireman of the Year. Ingram issued “The Link Challenge,” asking everyone to put in the kind of time in the fire department that Hurgin had.

 Fire fighter Bill Cadella said, “Link is a true fireman.  He is always there when you need him.”  Hurgin and Cadella had ridden together many times in events and funerals, and Cadella said, “He is a true brother of the fire department.”

 There was laughter among the tears as each of the men remembered time spent with Hurgin. “He was my partner for 25 years,” Bruce Cornwell said.

 Pat Morton recalled his early days at the fire house, “As the youngest single man here, Link always told me to come to all of the drills because that way you get fed.” 

 Others remembered fighting fires together, and Danny Fredericks, a past captain, said, “I have been here for 15 years, and a fire fighter for 37.  It was great working with a guy like him.”

 After he was presented with his badge, coat and plaque, Hurgin got up to say a few words to the gathered crowd.  “Thank you for everything.  I am going to miss you all terribly.  For 35 years, this has been my second home.”

 Hurgin advised that the Fire Department should always remain volunteer, and said,  “Thanks for 35 years.  I’ll be in Florida in February when you are digging out the hydrants.”  He thanked Captain Ingram for putting together the party, and wrapping up his goodbye, Hurgin said, “Be safe.  Always come home.”