Mayor, Council Honors Long-Time OCFD Employees

Mayor, Council Honors Long-Time OCFD Employees
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OCEAN CITY — The Town of Ocean City recognized two distinguished members of its emergency response team this week on the occasion of their retirement.

The Ocean City Fire Department’s J.H. Williams, a 31-year veteran, and William “Bill” Hall, a 25-year member, were presented with proclamations and lauded by their colleagues at ceremonies at City Hall on Tuesday.

Williams, who joined the town’s career division in 1983, has spent his career working as a firefighter/paramedic. In addition to his work as a career employee, he also works with the Bishopville Volunteer Fire Department.

While Williams’ formal responsibilities included providing emergency first response to the residents and visitors of Ocean City, he also served on the department’s dive team and was a member of the Maryland Crisis Response Team. Throughout his career, Williams obtained numerous certifications in the fields of fire suppression and EMS.  He was a nationally recognized paramedic and was a certified advanced rescue technician.

“I want to thank the hiring board for giving me a chance to work here,” said Williams.  “Also, I would like to thank all of my co-workers and the management over the years.”

Williams, who will continue to work with the Bishopville Volunteer Fire Department, plans to continue to serve his community.  He also hopes to occupy his free time traveling with his wife and family and spending time with his seven grandchildren.

Hall, more fondly known as “Mr. Bill,” joined the town’s career division full-time in 1989 and has spent his career working as a vehicle/equipment mechanic and firefighter.

Hall’s formal responsibilities included the maintenance and repair of emergency vehicles assigned to the fire department.  In addition, Hall responded to emergency calls as needed. With several specialized training certificates, including aerial operation, hazmat technician and EMT, Hall also served his community outside of Ocean City as an Assistant Chief of the Showell Volunteer Fire Company.

“I’d like to thank my friends and co-workers for their many years of support,” Hall said.

With his official retirement date, Nov. 30, nearing, Ocean City Fire Chief Chris Larmore said Hall will be hard to replace.

“We might be able to find someone to fill the position,” Larmore stated.  “But we certainly won’t be able to find another Mr. Bill.”