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Crime & Safety

Firefighter Richard Glanovsky Recognized for Fifty Years of Service

Town and officials thank him for his dedication

Friends, family and fellow firefighters filled Tavern on the Green at Saturday night to honor Richard Glanovsky for 50 years of dedicated service to

Glanovsky said he was “thankful so many people came out. All the years were good. I’m still going to go out on calls when I can.” 

He first joined the Fire Auxiliary in 1958 “because at that time you couldn’t volunteer until you were 21 years old,” explained Mary Glanovsky, his wife of 44 years.

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He officially began his career as a firefighter as a volunteer in February 1961, then served as a paid firefighter from 1976 until 2000. Glanovsky is still an active volunteer firefighter.

After dinner, Chief Brian Hunter spoke, thanking Glanovsky, who was named Firefighter of the Year in 1992, for his 50 years of service. Hunter cited Glanovsky's many accomplishments from “being one of the highest trained firefighters in the state, having been one of the first EMTs, to serving as Captain of Engine 1 from 1977 to 1990, Deputy Chief 1990 to 1994 and Assistant Chief 1994 to 1995.” Hunter also recalled Glanovsky’s heroism that saved many lives.

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Glanovsky was also Captain of the Muster team for years, and in a glowing tribute his daughter Lisa Kall recalled the many weekends the family attended events with other teams. She presented him with a thick scrapbook commemorating his years with Tunxis Hose.

“The firehouse was my second home. When the siren went off, we knew someone needed him more than us. I am so glad my Dad is a firefighter. I will always be proud,” she said. 

Following family tradition, Lisa also married a firefighter and their 14 year old daughter, Rebecca, is about to become a cadet. 

Farmington Town Council Chairman Mike Clark presented Glanovsky with a plaque commemorating his service to Farmington and thanked him for “tireless service on behalf of your fellow citizens in time of need. Tonight is one more example of the volunteer spirit that really makes this town shine!”

State Representative Bill Wadsworth presented an Official Citation on behalf of the Connecticut General Assembly, congratulating Glanovsky “on your 50 years of dedicated service as a volunteer firefighter with Tunxis Hose Company 1, Unionville Fire Department and as a firefighter with the Town of Farmington. Today we recognize your immeasurable contributions to our community and wish you continued success with all your future endeavors.”

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