Some 40 years ago, a small group of caring citizens started the Luttrell Volunteer Fire Department. On May 9, board members, firefighters and friends gathered at the Luttrell Firehall to celebrate LVFD and honor its longest serving member, Wayne Toppins.
Wayne joined the group just after the first meeting and helped to write the bylaws and to charter the department. He became one of the first in the department to be trained as a firefighter Level I and Level II and rose to the rank of captain. During the second year of the department, Wayne was appointed secretary-treasurer of the LVFD Board along with being a volunteer firefighter.
At 80 years old, he continues to serve in this position, although he retired as an active firefighter in 2009. Chief Brad Woods congratulated Wayne on his dedication to the department and remarked that “Wayne has overseen the finances and reports as well as served as a firefighter. His dependability and knowledge have enabled LVFD to survive and thrive. I am so humbled and proud to have the opportunity to know and work with him.” Chief Woods awarded Toppins a plaque carved from a local cedar tree for his service.
Wayne said he was very surprised by the honor and thanked everyone for all of the food and festivities to celebrate his 80th birthday and his service to LVFD. He also noted that he would continue to serve as long as he was able. Many of the firefighters shared stories and memories of the history of the department.
Jessica Dyer Woods, wife of Chief Woods, organized the barbecue dinner complete with a custom birthday cake for Wayne and LVFD.