TORRINGTON – The Torrington Volunteer Fire Department hosted its annual banquet marking its 100-year anniversary.

On Friday, firefighters were recognized for their dedication to the organization following a banquet dinner catered by Cottonwood Catering.

Fire Warden Bill Law prepared a speech for the banquet that included the history of the organization. In 1920 the community rallied together to fight a fire that resulted in the formation of the TVFD, Law said.

“That fire did a lot more than burn up that home that night, because three days later it ignited a spark – a spark that’s still alive today. [On] Feb. 14, 1920, a group of concerned Torrington citizens gathered in the Goshen County Courthouse and with a loud and united voice they said, ‘That’s it – no more,’” Law said. “They gave us our start and what they gave us is what we’re still doing today. They served through their years and they said yes. We serve today because we said ‘yes’.”

Law said three men originally formed the TVFD with $2,800 to buy a truck and equipment.

TVFD Fire Chief Lance Petsch spoke about the events the department participated in and significant calls of 2019, including Roy’s Cold Storage and a call that was “near and dear” to him – the East L Street Fire.

Petsch also extended his thanks to the members as well as their significant others for the work they put into the organization and recognized several firefighters for their service in higher positions in the department.

The firefighters who have continued in the department for 10 years and more were recognized, as well as the top five responders for 2019.

Training Division Chief Cody Scott recognized Jason Moore as the 2019 Rookie of the Year.

Following the Chief’s award, Petsch recognized Jeff Harris and Stacie Lira as Co-Firefighters of the Year.

This year, the department added an award and recognized Burger King for Business of the Year.