No, the fire trucks were not in Bolton for a fire, but to celebrate in unison for the Bolton Volunteer Fire Company’s 100th birthday.

Many local political figures were present to recognize this achievement, like Congresswoman Elise Stefanik, state Senator Betty Little, state Assemblyman Dan Stec and Warren County Undersheriff Shawn Lamouree.

Stefanik honored the department with a congressional record.

“Since its incorporation in 1918, the Bolton Volunteer Fire Company has upheld its mission to provide fire protection and rescue services to the residents of Bolton, New York,” she wrote in the record.

Little and Stec spoke together at the event. They gave a state legislative proclamation to the department that may become official once they return to office in January.

“When you consider it, it’s a volunteer organization that has existed for 100 years, we are all proud of you and thankful for all of your service,” Little said.

“Service to your community is one of the highest callings one can have,” Stec said. “Certainly, the nature of your volunteer service is dangerous as well. So, for that added reason, we all have a debt of gratitude, not only Bolton on its 100th anniversary, but all of our area fire departments, rescue squads and first responders for keeping our community safe.”

Bolton Fire Chief Jeremy Coon was the last speaker for the event as light rain began to come down. He said that there are 31 active, countless living and exempt and 159 deceased members to the department. The 20-year firefighter added that every member “contributed a great deal to not only this department, but this community.”

He ended the afternoon conference with a focus on what these volunteer workers sacrifice to accomplish their duty for the community.

“You trip the tone for a structure fire, or a bad car accident with extrication or for a simple fire alarm, these boys will leave anything (they are doing),” he said. “… For 100 years, they have done this for free. They are brave. For 100 years, when people run out, they run in.”