18th Annual CSFA Hall of Fame Induction Dinner (April 2, 2026)

Sandy Hook Volunteer Fire & Rescue officers, members, Ladies Auxiliary and Junior Corps members filled nearly three tables at the 18th Annual Connecticut State Firefighters Association (CSFA) Hall of Fame Induction Dinner on April 2, 2026.

The event was celebrated at the Aqua Turf in Southington.

SHVFR Treasurer and EMS Captain Karin Halstead is currently CSFA’s First Vice President. She is also a co-chair of the CSFA Hall of Fame Committee.  

Sandy Hook VFR members joined nearly 500 firefighters from across the state to celebrate the Class of 2026, which included SHVFR Social member and former Nichols Chief John Plofkin (who carries many additional credentials) and Bernie Meehan, a longtime friend and supporter of Sandy Hook VFR who started his fire career with Newtown Hook & Ladder (and also holds many additional credentials).

This year’s inductees also included the Reverend Mark Hayes, Thomaston; Thomas A. Clapsadle Jr, Waterford Sub Base; Dr Reginald D. Freeman, Hartford; the late Charles E. Raubeson, West Haven; Edward B. St John, Middlebury; and Peter Towey, New Britain and Hartford.

The Connecticut Firefighters Pipes & Drums State Honor Guard opened the evening.

John and Cheryl Plofkin enter the hall. John is a past chief of Nichols Fire, Deputy Chief of Wilton FD, an instructor at Fairfield Regional Fire School and an active member of several fire service organizations, among other highlights.

Our late chief, Bill Halstead, was the first Newtown firefighter inducted into the CT Firefighters Hall of Fame. Chief Halstead was one of 12 members of the CSFA Class of 2011, the third year of the program.