L’Observateur / April 3, 1999

When the Garyville Fire Department held its annual awards banquet in late 1998, it was dedicated to the memory of three former Garyville Volunteer Fire Department members who died that year: Henry “I.C.” Haydel, Bobby Volion and Lawrence “Squint” Laiche Sr.The department has been presenting awards since 1985. Harris PaulDuhe’ received the “Fireman of the Year” award, and “Service” awards went to John Levron, for 20 years of service, and Jennifer Duhe, for five years of service. Faron “Slim” Duhe and Harris PaulDuhe’ received “Outstanding Service” awards for having averaged over 60 percent participation.

The late Earl Baloney Jr. was a staunch supporter of the departmentand was responsible for starting the EMS division, training the men and donating equipment. This was the first year an EMS award waspresented, and Harris Paul Duhe’ was named “Outstanding First Responder.” Fire chief “Slim” Duhe’ chose the recipient, but in thefuture members will vote.

Member Gayle Oubre received an award in appreciation for the 41 years he gave to the department as treasurer.

The banquet, now called the “Earl Baloney Jr. Memorial” awardsbanquet, was attended by members of Earl Baloney’s family – Sheila, Carmen, Carl and Jerry Baloney, representing Baloney’s Ambulance Service and family. They reciprocated for the honor bestowed uponEarl Baloney by presenting a plaque to Fire Chief Duhe in appreciation of the department’s recognition of Baloney as a major contributor to the fire department’s existence.

Also, prominent in the firehouse is a tribute to Baloney, a plaque which reads “Dedicated to a former member and friend who shared his knowledge and skills and helped us take care of the ones in need.”Firemen and guests attending the banquet included civil defense director Bertram Madere and Inez Blank of the Ladies Auxiliary, who presented Chief “Slim” Duhe an award in appreciation of the fire prevention program for senior citizens recently held.Back to Top

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