RVFD conducts officers installation

Posted February 2nd, 2010
FIREMAN OF THE YEAR: Chad Broussard, left, accepts an engraved firefighter’s statute from Fire Chief Lee Hebert during Monday night’s installation banquet of the Rayne Volunteer Fire Department. Broussard was selected in balloting by his fellow volunteer firemen. See more pictures and report inside.
Paul Kedinger

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By PAUL KEDINGER
Managing Editor

Chad Broussard was named 2010 Fireman of the Year by his fellow volunteer firefighters during the annual installation banquet of the Rayne Volunteer Fire Department.
Broussard, who served as the association’s treasurer, accepted an engraved fireman statue from Fire Chief Lee Hebert during Monday night. Broussard’s name will also be inscribed on a department plaque with past honorees.
Chief Hebert also presented appreciation plaques to Louis “Bedoo” Meche who was retiring as an active fireman after 21 years of service. Marvin Todd Meche was also name the recipient of a 25-year service pin.
Adam Soileaux and Chad Dupuis were also recognized for their service as directors on the Fire District No. 9 board.
Rayne City Judge Jim Cunningham administered the oath of office to the newly elected officers of the Rayne Firemen’s Association.
Chief Hebert took the opportunity to announce that he will retired this year when he marks 25 years as a volunteer fireman.
The fire chief reported the volunteer department answered 205 calls, including 19 trash fires, 57 structure and vehicle calls, 61 vehicle accidents and 63 smoke scares and miscellaneous alerts, along with over 200 first responder alerts during 2009.
Special guests at the installation banquet included State Fire Marshal H. “Butch” Browning, State Representative Jack Montoucet, Mayor Jim Petitjean, Police Jury John Quebodeaux.
Fire Marshal Browning commented on the dedication of volunteer firemen, and urged them to “leave things better than you found them” and mentor young firefighters.
“Rayne does have an example of what a volunteer department is,” concluded Browning.
Rep. Montoucet remarked, “We can never say thank you enough for your sacrifices,” adding he commended the sacrifices made by the volunteers’ wives.
Mayor Petitjean praised the all volunteer department, noting he would compare it achievements and dedication against any paid fire department.
Deceased firemen Wenzel Habetz and Wilfred Kibodeaux were remember during a moment of silence.