It is with deepest regret and sorrow to report the passing of Maura Gildea beloved wife of Vice-President William Gildea Local 1347, Watertown Firefighters.  Maura died peacefully in her sleep on Wednesday, April 30, 2008 at home surrounded by her loving family.  The thoughts and prayers of the Membership are with the Gildea Family during this time of profound loss.

Memorial service information is available by downloading the attached document.

General President Schaitberger of the International Association of Fire Fighters is proud to report the formation of a new IAFF Alumni web site.  IAFF Alumni membership will help you stay connected with your Brother and Sister Firefighters within the IAFF Community.

The IAFF Alumni program offers valuable benefits, including access to the IAFF Financial Corporation and the Union Sportsmen's Alliance (USA).   As members of the Alumni, you will also receive IAFF email communications and have access to information on issues that directly affect you.

Please click on this link for more information:  IAFF_ALUMNI

Congratulations to Robert Quinn for earning a 2008 Jennings Scholarship.  The John J. and Nora Jennings Memorial Scholarship is administered by the Jennings Scholarship Committee.  Each year they provide eight $2,500 scholarships to the children of active, retired or deceased members of the Professional Fire Fighters of Massachusetts who are or will be attending any college, university or post graduate studies next fall.

On Thursday, April 17, 2008, eight Firefighters were injured in the line of duty fighting a fire in Brookline.  

One Firefighter was rescued by his brother jakes, 3 of whom were injured in the process. The eight injuries came from a series of serious fire consequences:   5 were injured from a backdraft, 2 from a ceiling collapse, and 1 from a stairway collapse.  A propane tank fueled fire quickly spread in this two and a half story home.  

For more on the story please click on the following link courtesy of Brookline Firefighters, Local 950, IAFF:   LOCAL_950,_IAFF

The membership of Local 1347 is proud to support the Watertown Lodge of Elks 1513 in their efforts to help our Nation’s homeless veterans.  On Saturday, May 17 the Watertown Elks are hosting a BBQ where local veterans will be treated to a fun day with good food and company.  All are welcome to join in the effort to make this annual event a continued success. 

More detailed information will be provided soon.