Art Peterson along with pump operator David MaCauley. (Jaryn Vecchio/paNOW Staff)

By Jaryn Vecchio

Always Family

Former P.A. firefighter celebrates 66th anniversary of first day with department

Aug 23, 2022 | 5:00 PM

A former Prince Albert firefighter celebrated a special milestone in style.

Art Peterson got the chance to experience one of the newest vehicles on what was the 66^th anniversary of his first day with the department. His career started on Aug. 23, 1956, eventually lasting over 34 years before officially retiring on Dec. 30, 1990.

Peterson told paNOW that despite never working with any of the current firefighters, they have always welcomed him back.

“I’ve been treated so well by all the firefighters.”

Those who have been with the department long enough know Aug. 23 is Peterson’s day.

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In years past, he would stop by to chat with those on call, have coffee, and review some of the newest machinery being used. This hasn’t happened over the past couple of years due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

When first starting out, Peterson would be on the ground fighting the fires, but near the end of his career, he was tasked with ensuring all the machinery was safe and reliable. The current equipment being used, according to Peterson, is “second to none.”

He was also given a chance to try out the vehicle’s fire hose, handling it like a seasoned pro.

Days like this are what Peterson calls some of the best memories.

“The good times are just like this when we go out for training,” he said.

Coming up on the 32^nd anniversary of his retirement, it’s safe to say Peterson misses the old days.

He joked that being a firefighter is in his blood and the passion will never leave.

“If there is such a thing as reincarnation, I’m coming back as a firefighter.”

—

Jaryn.Vecchio@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @princealbertnow