Sandy Hook Volunteer Fire & Rescue Chief Bill Halstead has been named Fireman of the Year by Fairfield County Fire Chiefs Association.

The group announced and presented the award to Chief Halstead during its monthly meeting on November 20 at Candlewood Fire Company in Brookfield. Bill Coffey of Padanaram Hose Co. and Chief Bill Davin of Monroe Fire presented Chief Halstead with the honor.

Chief Halstead joined Sandy Hook Fire & Rescue on his 16th birthday in 1965. He progressed through the ranks, serving as engineer, first engineer, and assistant chief before becoming chief of the company in 1978.

Halstead has also been the Town of Newtown fire marshal since 2001. He has held numerous positions throughout the state relating to the fire service, including serving as president of Fairfield County Fire Chiefs 1994–1995.

Bill Coffey stated Chief Halstead has done a tremendous job throughout his career and truly deserved this honor.