Retirement of 2 Reading Firefighters

 Reading Fire Department Retirements

Two long-time members of the Reading Fire Department were recently feted with a retirement party to honor their years of service to the Town of Reading.  The party was held at the Wakefield Elks for Firefighters Matthew McSheehy and William Vanhorn.  The party was well attended by friends, family, associates, and dignitaries.

Matthew began his career with the department in 1984, serving as a firefighter and E.M.T.  He was also a member of the Reading Auxiliary Fire Service prior to joining the department.  Later in his career, Matt became the unofficial fire department photographer, with many of his emergency scene photos being published by local news agencies.  Matt’s career spanned 27 years.     

William joined the department in 1995 and was employed by the department for 17 years as a firefighter and E.M.T.  He comes from a long line of fire fighting.  His father, grandfather, and great-grandfather were all members of the Reading Fire Department.     

Massachusetts Senator Katherine Clark presented the first awards.  Both men were given citations from the Massachusetts Senate and House of Representatives thanking them for their many years of service.  Next, Town Manager Peter Hechenbleikner, in one of his final acts prior to his own retirement, presented Matthew and William with official Town of Reading street signs emblazoned with their names.

Reading’s Fire Chief, Gregory Burns presented the traditional, gold retirement badges to Matthew and William and thanked them for their dedication and commitment to the department.  The Reading Firefighters Association also gave the retirees many photos and gifts for their service and for their assistance in numerous charitable endeavors.