On Saturday, 2/7/26 hundreds of people attended a ceremony for the Past Chief of Colchester and Past Captain of Salem, Robert Brown. Despite getting about 5 inches of snow to start the morning, the crowd showed up in force to remember a fire instructor who certainly left his mark on our region. Chief Brown’s commitment and dedication to the fire service and to the communities he served were evident throughout his time with us. His leadership, mentorship, and unwavering service left a lasting impact on both Colchester and Salem, and his legacy will continue to guide those who follow in his footsteps.

The Colchester Police and Connecticut State Police lead the procession followed by Colchester Engine 328 and Salem Ladder 121 carrying his urn. A long list of departments supplied apparatus for the procession. Colchester Truck 128 held the flag in front of Colchester Fire Headquarters. Bozrah Ladder 126 and East Haddam Ladder 115 flew the flag in front of Salem's station with Columbia Engine 105. A group of retirees also lined the apron of the Colchester Fire Museum to properly send off Chief Brown.

Hearing Rob's son Robbie talking about growing up in the fire station while watching his father, certainly hit home for a lot of attendees. The New London County Pipes and Drums Band played for the large gathering. Car 21 and Quinebaug Valley Emergency Communications did the final radio send off for a hardworking gentleman who we will never forget. 

Thank you to Salem Valley Farms for donating the ice cream to help remember Rob who had his own sundae named after him there.

Cancer really is the silent killer of the fire service, so we must all do whatever we can to protect our crews and ourselves while trying to stay healthy.