While Royal Preston may no longer be able to go out on fire calls, he still has an impact on the Franklinville Volunteer Fire Department.
The 94-year-old Franklinville native has been an exempt member for the last 36 years, but anytime there’s a fire hall function, he’s there. Members describe him as the unofficial grandfather of the department.
“He’s someone you look up to,” said Franklinville Assistant Fire Chief Bill Lambert. At the department’s annual family picnic Saturday at Shamrock Pines Campground, Preston was honored for reaching 75 years of service. Firefighters surprised him with certificates of recognition from state fire organizations, as well as the presence of his family members, whom they secretly invited.