David Clark's father was a member of the Peterborough Fire Brigade and he would often share stories with his son about what happened and how he would help his community.
Then in 1988 as he followed in his father's footsteps, David joined the Dauphin Fire Department (DFD). He became one of the lead firefighting and first aid instructors in the area just two years later in 1990. During his journey on the force, David was promoted to the rank of Captain in 2005 and he was later promoted to Assistant Deputy Chief. Then in 2016, Clark was named Deputy Chief. He held that position for five years when he transitioned into the role of Training Officer/Safety Officer in 2021.
While David will never forget his days as a firefighter, they have come to an end as David recently retired from the DFD after 34 years of serving and protecting the community. Clark says serving the community was a great honour.
"It was a humbling experience," said Clark. "Arriving on the scene on the worst day of someone's life and being able to give them the aid and help that we could was always an honour. Providing a service to the community felt really good."
A post on the department's Facebook page thanked David for everything he did over the past three-plus decades.
"Thank you David for your dedication and commitment to the citizens we serve, and for all your years spent instructing members of the fire service," said the post. "A great number of students have benefited from the knowledge that you have shared over the past 30-plus years."
Just 10 years after he joined the department, David was selected by his fellow firefighters as Firefighter of the Year and he was presented with the award at the annual Firefighters' Ball. Then in 2008, Clark received the Governor General's Exemplary Service Medal for 20 years. He then received a medal for 25 years of service and 30 years of service, as well.
While David wasn't in it for the awards, it was a special feeling when he was selected to receive one.
"It's really affirmation from your fellow firefighters that I was able to provide a special service and be recognized for that special service," ended Clark.
