06/10/2026
SIRENS SOUND TO HONOR 5 DECADES OF SERVICE
On an idyllic May afternoon, sirens echoed across the grounds of Country Living at Westview Commons. This was neither an emergency nor an exercise, but rather a herald of well-earned recognition for a dedicated firefighter living among the community's residents. As a procession of rescue apparatus entered the driveway of Westview Commons, a gallery of neighbors, family members, friends, and fellow firefighters gathered beneath the porte-cochère at the community's main entrance. The plan had been established well in advance—unbeknownst to resident Ron Tillen. As far as he knew, he was simply enjoying a visit from his son.
With Thompson Fire Engine Company's three trucks and assembled ranks waiting outside, Ron's patient curiosity found reward as he walked into the surprise salute. Led out by his wife Gwyneth, Ron's shock was quickly surpassed by his joy. Smiles surrounded him as applause echoed beneath the entryway. Reflecting both his sense of humor and his sense of duty, Ron playfully stepped into formation alongside the ten members of Thompson Fire Engine Company gathered before him.
This grand demonstration celebrated Ron's selection as the recipient of the 2026 Thompson Unpaid Professional of the Year Award—a distinction presented through the Thompson VFW Memorial Post 10088 (Quinebaug). Ron is recognized as this year’s recipient for his enduring service to Thompson Fire Engine Company.
Determined to properly recognize one of their longest-serving and most devoted members, firefighters brought the presentation directly to Ron at his Westview Commons residence. Multiple ranks and responsibilities were represented among the Thompson Fire Engine Company members in attendance. Each knew Ron through a different chapter of service, friendship, mentorship, or shared experience. As Ron stepped up to greet Thompson Fire Engine Company Chief Matt Grauer and Assistant Chief Randy Fifield, he remained characteristically humble, taking time to congratulate each officer on their own advancement within the department and warmly recalling when they first joined.
The sounds of sirens have long carried special meanings for Ron. Growing up in England during World War II, sirens warned families of approaching bombing raids and signaled the need to seek shelter. Following his family's move to the United States, Ron discovered that American sirens often meant something different: firefighters, emergency responders, and volunteers rushing toward danger to help others. To Ron, the sound of a siren always signals a call to action.
When Ron and Gwyneth moved to Thompson, CT in 1971, he inquired about joining the local volunteer fire department with enthusiasm. Encouraged by neighbors, Ron officially joined Thompson Fire Engine Company in January 1972 and was welcomed into the organization. More than five decades later, he remains among the department's most dedicated members and currently serves as its eldest member still on the books.
Like many volunteer firefighters across America, Ron's years with the department involved far more than fighting structure fires. Members respond to motor vehicle accidents, flooded basements, medical emergencies, and countless calls for assistance throughout the community. Later in his service, Ron became a member of the department's Fire Police, helping safely direct traffic and maintain order around emergency scenes until law enforcement personnel assume command.
Yet the firefighters gathered at Westview Commons came not only to celebrate Ron's years of service, but also his efforts to preserve the history of the organization itself. Organized in 1832 and established in 1837, Thompson Fire Engine Company is the 10th oldest fire company in Connecticut and the oldest in Windham County. Through years of careful research, Ron examined handwritten meeting minutes and historical records dating back nearly two centuries. His efforts culminated in the publication of "A History of The Thompson Fire Engine Company: The First 170 Years." This beautifully composed volume reflects Ron's determination to ensure that every firefighter found within the historical record is remembered through time. Copies of the work are shared with historical organizations and repositories throughout Connecticut; preserving the story of the company for future generations.
The gathered crowd listened attentively as Chief Grauer reflected on Ron's contributions. “Ron has been president of the company, company historian, and devoted member going on 55 years. The book he created for our Fire Company is a great piece of history—not just for the Fire Company, but for the Town of Thompson, CT and the whole state. Through all of Ron’s years of service to Thompson Fire Engine Company he has been instrumental in our community engagement; always insisting on helping the Company get better. It is with great privilege that I present Ron with the 2026 Thompson Unpaid Professional Award.”
Assistant Chief Randy Fifield explained why the department chose to bring the presentation directly to Westview Commons. “We really wanted this recognition to symbolize the continued connection we have with Ron and all of our members. This was one of the more important calls of the year for us, and definitely one of the easiest!”
The surprise succeeded in overcoming Ron's nearly-impenetrable humility. Following the presentation, gathered guests branched into smaller conversations as friends and colleagues reconnected under a glowing sunset. Ron made a point of shaking the hand of every firefighter in attendance, recalling shared experiences and memories with each greeting.
The award recognized a lifetime of service, but the surprise visit revealed something even more enduring: the friendships forged through that service. As the apparatus of Thompson Fire Engine Company departed Westview Commons, they left behind more than an award presentation. They imparted a powerful reminder that true service is never forgotten.
