Tunxis celebrates the service of Past Chief Richard J. Higley Sr.
Thank you to everyone that attended this amazing event as we honor the life long service Rich has given to his communities. From Simsbury to Burlington to Unionville, Rich’s service spans almost 50 years highlighted by the last 12 years as Chief of Tunxis Hose.
Thank you Chief Higley for your leadership and friendship. We wish you and Cheryl the best in your well deserved retirement!
A Little History Lesson
Prior to his service at Tunxis Hose Co. No 1, Rich was a fire cadet and member of the Simsbury Volunteer Fire Department as well as a member and Past Fire Chief of the Burlington Volunteer Fire Department. In February of 2001, Rich signed the constitution of Tunxis Hose Co. No. 1 making him a full member of the department. From there Rich hit the ground running, serving as the Captain of Engine 5 from 2002-2004, Deputy Chief from 2004-2008, Assistant Chief from 2008-2012 and Chief of the Department from 2012-2024. During his time as Chief, numerous pieces of apparatus were purchased including replacements for Medic 16, Medic 17, Engine 2, and Engine 3. Tunxis Hose also purchased its first Quint Ladder Truck during Rich’s tenure as Chief. Rich was also the Committee Chair for the Live Fire Training Facility where he led the charge to raise $1,000,000 to make our vision for a training facility in the Town of Farmington a reality. Rich has received numerous awards during his service at Tunxis Hose, including Firefighter of the Year in 2009 and 2024, and Meritorious Service Awards in 2016 and 2023.
A Letter from the Officers and Members of Tunxis Hose Co. No. 1
We would like to thank you for your many years of service to our department, as well as your unwavering commitment to serving the citizens of the Borough of Unionville, and Town of Farmington. We wish you a long and happy retirement. You’ve earned it!