Community Corner

Local Firefighters 'Go Bald For A Brother'

Emergency responders from all over the region get a close shave to raise money for New London Firefighter Brendan McGuirk, who is battling cancer.

There was a lot of buzz at Mohegan Fire Department in Montville on Saturday. It was the sound of clippers shearing the heads of dozens of emergency responders who volunteered to "Go Bald For A Brother" to show support for New London firefighter Brendan McGuirk, who is battling cancer.

The first fundraiser of its kind was held four years ago as a benefit for Mohegan Tribal Fire Department firefighter and EMT Todd Williamson. Before he passed away, Williamson asked his friend Frank Geer to continue the tradition in his name to help other firefighters. 

The fundraiser attracted between 75 to 100 people, including firefighters and EMTs from Waterford, Old Lyme, Lyme, Niantic, Mohegan Tribal Fire Company, New London, Norwich, Oakdale, Montville, Ledyard, Center Groton, Gales Ferry, Oakdale, Gardner Lake in Salem, and UConn. 

Family and friends got in on the act too. Two-year-old Robbie Woodhall wasn't so keen on the experience but was easily consoled with pizza. 

"Todd Williamson was one of our close friends," explained his mom, Jenn Woodhall, of Mystic.

Mike Winski, 12, and his father, Joe, a firefighter with Mohegan Tribe both went under the clippers. Donny Ellis of the Town of Montville colored his hair and bushy mustache and beard orange before the big shave. He's pretty sure his new look is going to meet with his wife's approval. 

"I just hope the dogs let me in the house," he joked. 
 
For a number of people, this has become an annual tradition. Center Groton Fire Department Chief Derek Fauntleroy did it the first time for Williamson—who was his partner when Williamson first became an EMT—and he's done it every year since in honor of his friend.   

"He would have done the same thing for me if I was in need," said Fauntleroy. "That's what the brotherhood is all about." 


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