Fire Fighters Call Town of Stoughton “Most Unpatriotic Town in America”

February 29, 2008 -- National, State, and local union officials and firefighters from across Massachusetts descended on the town of Stoughton, calling the Town of Stoughton, “The Most Unpatriotic Town in America.”

Fire fighters say the town is unpatriotic for failing to compensate Stoughton Fire Captain Doug Campbell, who is on active duty in Iraq, as a member of the Massachusetts Air National Guard. Other Stoughton Fire Department members have been working his tours of duty at the fire department in order for him to receive his entitled benefits.

“Brother Campbell is the ultimate public safety employee serving on the frontlines, both as a fire fighter and member of the Air National Guard.” says Bob McCarthy, president of the Professional Fire Fighters of Massachusetts. “I am appalled and shocked by the actions of the Stoughton Selectmen in choosing to ignore Brother Campbell’s situation. It is time for the Town of Stoughton, and the Board of Selectmen, to step up to the plate and support Brother Campbell and his family while he fights for all of us.”

Massachusetts has recognized the sacrifice of members of the Armed Services by enacting laws in support of employees serving during this time of war. Many municipalities are providing salary and health insurance benefits for the families of these employees. Stoughton’s Board of Selectmen has chosen not to address Campbell’s benefits while he is on active duty.

“Stoughton fire fighters take pride in protecting the residents and businesses of this town,” says Peter Denneno, president of Stoughton Local 1512. “Brother Campbell and his family are also part of this community. We need to come together to help them in their time of need. Depriving him of his benefits while he fights for our country is just unacceptable.”

Campbell is an 18-year veteran fire fighter and a 20- year member of the Air National Guard.