Guernsey Press

Firefighter ‘made a difference’ during 33 years of service

HIGHLY commended firefighter Dave Wallace has retired after nearly 33 years’ service – with the chief fire officer praising him for making a difference.

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Chief fire officer Jon Le Page, left, spoke highly of watch commander Dave Wallace, who has retired from the Guernsey Fire & Rescue Service after nearly 33 years. (Picture by Sophie Rabey, 28571171)

Surrounded by familiar faces, an official presentation at the fire station saw speeches from chief fire officer Jon Le Page followed by Mr Wallace.

Joining the Guernsey Fire Brigade on 12 February 1986, Mr Wallace was a retained firefighter before becoming fully-fledged in January 1987.

‘I am sad to be leaving, no doubt about it. I’d do it again at the drop of a hat. I would stay on for longer but my time has come,’ he said.

‘I’ve worked with four chief fire officers, which is quite a feat in itself. It has changed so much, now there’s more medical call-outs.’

He undertook recruit training from January to March 1987 in Eastleigh, Hampshire.

His first job was memorable when a barge at Beaucette was sinking, covered in petrol.

‘I was slipping and scraping my way up, but my boots caught on a tiny ridge. Otherwise it would have been all over for me.’

At a chimney fire in 1988, Mr Wallace fell victim to an unsuitable roofing ladder, leading to GFRS using fire-service specification ladders.

The high risks of firefighting were noted, with colleagues gone far too soon.

He moved to the USA in October 1988, but couldn’t stay away long before rejoining on 30 April 1990.

He trained to become a physical training instructor in 1992, again in Eastleigh.

There he rescued a young lady from sexual assault by a man who fled before Mr Wallace could tackle him, leading to a successful conviction for which he was commended.

Mr Le Page said: ‘Public spirit and desire to help others has remained with Dave throughout his career.’

Promotions came for Mr Wallace, who became leading firefighter in January 1996 and watch commander in January 2005.

‘Dave admirably received three chief fire officer commendations during his career, which I must testify – they don’t give these out like Smarties.’

He was instrumental in introducing lifesaving health and safety standards still in use today.

‘What Dave gave everyone else in service made us what we are. Thank you for insisting on those standards. He influenced many lives throughout our community. It is clear he made a difference, even if people don’t realise it.

‘We hope he takes away happy memories. He should be proud, and we wish him a long, healthy, happy retirement.’

Drinks were held at Les Rocquettes Hotel after the presentation.

Mr Wallace thanked the island community and his family for their support.