For the first time in 108 years, Rockland's volunteer firefighters’ parade and convention will be canceled.
Both events were casualties of the coronavirus pandemic.
The Rockland County Volunteer Firefighters’ Association board of directors voted on Wednesday to cancel the convention. The annual parade, which was to be hosted this year by West Nyack Fire Engine Co. 1, was canceled in late June. “We just couldn’t get a convention venue that would safely hold the membership while practicing safe social distancing,” said outgoing Association President Chris Nau, a volunteer with the Columbian Engine Co. of the Spring Valley Fire Department. “I think, for the safety of the public and our membership, it was the right thing to do.”
The convention, which started in 1912, is the highlight of the association’s annual events, featuring the firefighter of the year and unit citation awards. It includes the awarding of 25-year life memberships and the annual election of officers.