Bayville Volunteer Fire Company Bids Farewell To Much-Loved Brother

By Patricia A. Miller

Andrew Johnston became part of the family that is the Bayville Volunteer Fire Company when he was just 16.

He showed up at the firehouse with the contents of his piggy bank - all $4.57 of it - and donated it to the fire company.

Andrew never rode the fire trucks. But Johnston - who is mentally disabled - helped his brothers in many other ways. He often beat them to a fire scene on his bike or hopped into Chief Kenny Anderson's SUV. He directed traffic.

And every Friday night, he showed up at the firehouse for work details or drills.

Tuesday night, the Bayville Fire Company said goodbye to Andrew and his family, who are moving from their home in the Mill Creek section of Bayville to out of state to live with Andrew's brother.

They gave him an honorary fire company helmet and wished him well.

"Andrew was also given his honorary white helmet for his leadership in the fire service!!, the group's Facebook page states. "With all he had been through he is always in good spirits and attitude, we could all learn something from him!!

Andrew has had inoperable liver cancer for several years and numerous rounds of chemotherapy. Back in 2011, the company had the back of a small vehicle painted "Andrew's Ride," in honor of his fight against cancer and his dedication to the fire department.

"Tonight we said good bye to a long time member and friend Andrew Johnson and his father George Johnson!!" the Facebook page states. "1724 Andrews Ride was dedicated to him a few years back for his fight against cancer! He will truly be missed making everyone laugh!! Remember Firetrucks are green buddy!!