Tuesday 06/17/2003 9:23:14pm Name: Bill Calef Where you are from: Lehigh Florida, Formerly Northwood NH Fire Department/Agency: Fire Chief Northwood NH ( Retired) E-Mail: calef71@comcast.net How long you've known Dave: Where you know Dave from: Southern Maine Fire Your memories of Dave and your comments: There is much sadness in Florida, as We have lost a friend and comrade. I remember Dave showing up at fires as far away as Pittsfield NH when everyone else would be sleeping. He loved the fire service. He was a true firefighters friend and was always there to help. New England has lost one of its best. Many may not have had the pleasure to be able to know him personally as I did , but there are thousands who knew his voice on the scanner. He will be missed by all.

Tuesday 06/03/2003 7:08:29am Name: Reed Brookings Where you are from: Greer SC formerly No Berwick ME Fire Department/Agency: Formerly NBFD&SMFN E-Mail: rebrookings@yahoo.com How long you've known Dave: about 5 years Where you know Dave from: SMFN & fire dept Your memories of Dave and your comments: Chatting with him on smoke checks To his family, friends,and associates my deepest sympathies

Monday 06/02/2003 9:38:03am Name: Kevin Dyer Where you are from: Cape Neddick Fire Department/Agency: E-Mail: How long you've known Dave: 18 yrs Where you know Dave from: Al & janet Hilton Your memories of Dave and your comments: A Poem for Dave Hilton As the snow starts to melt And the winds begin to blow Danger of fire in the state of Maine Often starts to grow Through the maples Through the pines The smoke would start to rise The drifting smoke would then be seen By Dave Hiltons watchful eyes Summer weather is comming Dryer day by day We'll miss those eyes in the tower A-top the mount Big A

Saturday 05/31/2003 10:12:20am Name: Rick Plummer Where you are from: Saco Fire Department/Agency: Biddeford Fire Dept E-Mail: rplumme2@maine.rr.com How long you've known Dave: 25 years Where you know Dave from: FD, SMFNA Your memories of Dave and your comments: This too is my second message... Dave you have no idea how much we miss you already. Ch 9 is down !!! It's not the same without you thats for sure, but we WILL carry on the SFMNA tradition. Thanks for all the comments on the euology, is was an easy thing to write about someone who you care so much about, although a much harder thing to do to try and read it.. Diane I thank you so much for letting me speak about Dave. Dave had many many friends, and I spoke for all of them !!!Chief Delner is correct, life is short and we need to get together as friends more often. York FD your true professionalism shows all the time, but was highlighted at Dave's Funeral. God bless you Dave. Hang in there Mr and Mrs Hilton, Di, Nick and Lora, we all love you and think of you daily!!

Friday 05/30/2003 8:35:08pm Name: Sandi MacLeod Where you are from: formerly York - now North Berwick Fire Department/Agency: E-Mail: gonefishn@gwi.net How long you've known Dave: years & years Where you know Dave from: earlier days in York Your memories of Dave and your comments: I remember Dave in his younger years - his marriage to Trish - the birh of his two children - his marriage to Diane. I have to say I haven't seen him in a long time -but my heart goes out to his parents, his wife, and his children...Too young....too soon....

Friday 05/30/2003 1:20:17pm Name: Francis Sharkey Where you are from: Phx, az now Formerly S. Berwick, Me Fire Department/Agency: Formerly S. Berwick VFD E-Mail: Fsharkey_1@lycos.com How long you've known Dave: Since summer 1995 Where you know Dave from: Met him at the Aggie tower Your memories of Dave and your comments: When I met Dave in the summer of 95' I had just moved from Downeast Maine to South Berwick. I had recently Joined SBFD. And was up on Aggie. I met him. a very Warm and friendly Guy. He brought me up to the tower's observation deck and in a period of 2-3 hrs was teaching me everything about being a fire watch tower lookout. From then on aas much as I could I would go to the Aggie tower and help when I could. From time to time We would meet and he would always ask how I was doing. He was sincerly interested in me and my love of firefighting and volunteering. When I moved out west I kept in contact with him. I pray that God will watch over his Wife, family and loved ones. I will miss him. We all will miss him.

Friday 05/30/2003 8:25:04am Name: Alan Harris Where you are from: Orlando, Florida Fire Department/Agency: Seminole County Fire Department E-Mail: aharris@co.seminole.fl.us How long you've known Dave: Where you know Dave from: His Son, Nick Your memories of Dave and your comments: I just wanted to offer my condolences to each of your over the loss of Dave. Although I never knew him personally, I did have the honor of knowing his son. If Nick Hilton is any reflection of his father, Dave was truly an honest, trustworthy, and caring person. My prayers are with Nick, his firefighting brothers, and their family. May God Bless each of you and comfort you in this troubling time. Take care.

Friday 05/30/2003 7:32:50am Name: GEORGE GUILMETTE Where you are from: BERWICK, ME Fire Department/Agency: RETIRED SOMERSWORTH/BERWICK FD E-Mail: guilmettes@hotmail.com How long you've known Dave: 25+ YEARS Where you know Dave from: HANGING OUT WITH THE GUYS FROM YORK FD Your memories of Dave and your comments: SORRY I WASN'T ABLE TO ATTEND SERVICES HOWEVER HAD DAVE HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS AND FIREFIGHTERS IN MY PRAYERS SINCE I HEARD OF DAVES ILLNESS. HAD LOTS OF GOOD TIMES WITH ALL THE GUYS FROM YORK FD, CHRIS AND DEE, ED AND SUE,DAVE AND MANY OTHERS THROUGH THE YEARS ESPECIALLY WHEN THEY CAME TO SOMERSWORTH FD IN THE EARLY YEARS OF MY CAREER AT THE OLD PLEASANT ST STATION WITH MARC NADEAU DAVE MESSIER AND CREW ALL THE TIMES WE WOULD REMINISS ABOUT PAST FIRES AND THINGS, ALL THE CONVENTIONS AND FIELD DAYS ALL THE THINGS THAT MADE MY CAREER FUN. THE FIELD DAYS IN YORK THE PRE-FIELD DAY PARTIES AND AFTER PARTIES WERE GREAT TIMES,AND OF COURSE DAVES GREAT KNOWLEDGE OF THE FIRE TOWERS AND HIS LOVE AND VOLUNTEERING AT THEM,MANY DAYS I'VE GONE UP WITH MY SON OR EARLIER PRIOR TO BEING A DAD THE TIMES I HUNG OUT IN THE TOWER OR AT YORK FD. DAVE WILL BE MISSED AS I ALWAYS LISTEN TO SM92 AND CREWS ON SOUTHERN ME.FIRE NOTIFICATION GLAD TO BE ABLE TO ADD TO THIS GUEST PAGE I'M STILL AROUND AS I NOW DISPATCH FOR AMR AMBULANCE IN NEWBURYPORT DISPATCH DISPATCHING THE SEACOAST TO SCARBOROUGH NICE TALKING TO YOU ALL MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU. THANKS

Friday 05/30/2003 0:26:53am Name: York House of Pizza Where you are from: Fire Department/Agency: E-Mail: PKaroutas@attbi.com How long you've known Dave: 23 years Where you know Dave from: Your memories of Dave and your comments: David wasn't just a customer that came into our store, he was a friend. Words can not express the loss that we and the whole town have suffered by his tragic passing. His ever smiling face and dedication to volunteerism in the community will not be forgotten. Our deepest prayers and condolences go out to the Hilton family, and to his brother fire fighters.

Friday 05/30/2003 0:03:59am Name: Mark Dellner Where you are from: Rochester Fire Department/Agency: Fire Chief, Rochester E-Mail: mark.dellner@rochesternh.net How long you've known Dave: 15 yrs Where you know Dave from: Fire Service Brotherhood Your memories of Dave and your comments: This is my 2nd messsage on here since Daves death. It will be my last. I was at Daves funeral on Wednesday afternoon. I had the distinct honor to walk with 2 of Daves friends to the cemetary, Rick Plummer, the Chief in Biddeford and Andy Lucier, the Chief in Milton, NH. Very obvious to all of us "out of towners", was the professionalism and degree of respect shown to Dave & his family by Chief Chris Ballentine and the members of the York Fire Dept. It was wonderful to see the respect shown by the Beach companies and mutual aid units as well. Another thing I personally noticed and commented to others is that, just as Dave Hilton would have loved, is the "old home day roundup" of firefighters from the whole region, current and past, in honoring yet another one of our fallen brothers. Isn't it unfortunate that the only time we put on our uniforms, gather and shake hands with those we haven't seen in years, is at the funerals of our fallen members ? For you younger folks, you'll soon realize this fact. Take the time to say hi to your fellow brothers & sisters, like Dave always made time to, whether at mutual aid incidents, training events or wherever. As Daves death has illustrated to us all, you never know and life is too short. Lastly, I have heard may euligies of firefighters at too many funerals in my 27 years in this business. In my opinion, Chief Ricky Plummer, delivered the best I've ever heard to a fellow firefighter. He did so from his heart as his friend and we were all moved by his remarks. Chief Lucier from Milton, as well as so many others were very saddened by Daves loss, who was also one of his best friends. Again, take the time to help each other and be safe. To Daves family, you must know, we'll always be there for you with a tear in our eye, like you.

Thursday 05/29/2003 9:09:09am Name: Jack Norman Where you are from: Org. Deerfield,Ma. Now Titusville, Fl. Fire Department/Agency: Four Communities Fire Dept. Inc. E-Mail: president@fourcommunities.com How long you've known Dave: 25 years = Where you know Dave from: York Village Fire Dept. Your memories of Dave and your comments: I first met Dave at his parents home where he showed me some 30 plus photo albums with pictures of Fire Trucks and Fire Stations. A good friendship was formed. When he joined the Fire Dept. he demonstrated a thirst for knowledge of the Fire Service, and to do things just the right way. He was always eager to share, and willing to learn. He was so proud of Nick following in his footsteps, what a great experiance, father and son, same dept. My condolances to Diane, Laura, Nick, and Mr.& Mrs. Hilton, and the York Village Fire Dept. The Town Of York has suffered a tremendous loss. David, you will never be forgotten my friend.

Thursday 05/29/2003 7:14:40am Name: TIM KEEVAN Where you are from: ST ALBANS VT Fire Department/Agency: E-Mail: TIMOTHY.M.KEEVAN@USDOJ.GOV How long you've known Dave: Where you know Dave from: Your memories of Dave and your comments: SORRY FOR THE LOSE LEROY KEEVAN JR SON TIMOTHY

Thursday 05/29/2003 0:38:44am Name: Travis Hunter Where you are from: Florida Fire Department/Agency: Seminole County FD.. Exploer E-Mail: Tlhunter31@aol.com How long you've known Dave: didnt know him personally Where you know Dave from: i know his son Nick Your memories of Dave and your comments: Nick, Sorry to hear about your father. I know you and I were never really freinds but your still a brother firefighter and so is your dad. All of us from SCFD send our prayers to you and your family as well as YFD in this rough time.

Wednesday 05/28/2003 10:06:52pm Name: Jay Farrell Where you are from: So. Glens Falls NY Fire Department/Agency: Local Pierce Dealer Rep. here E-Mail: pegjay@adelphia.net How long you've known Dave: a few years Where you know Dave from: vacationing in maine Your memories of Dave and your comments: Always had a smile and a good word to say. He was a true Maine firefighter always would welcome an out of town fireman in the station house. Symapathy goes out to his family and to you, his fire house family.

Wednesday 05/28/2003 5:35:57pm Name: Steven Boucouvalas Where you are from: Saco Fire Department/Agency: Saco Fire and Emergency Management E-Mail: sm2106@hotmail.com How long you've known Dave: 3 years Where you know Dave from: Southern Maine Fire Notification Assoc. Your memories of Dave and your comments: Dave Hilton is an inspiration and a legend to those in the fire service his example of dedication and respect for the Fire Service is one that should be learned by all,may his ideals and efforts never be forgotten.DAVE you have ascended the ultimate Fire tower,please watch over us with EAGLE EYES and may GOD BLESS your children and loving wife.

Wednesday 05/28/2003 3:13:22pm Name: Brian Tutt Where you are from: Milton, NH Fire Department/Agency: Milton Fire-Rescue E-Mail: Tuttster1@aol.com How long you've known Dave: 10+ years Where you know Dave from: York Fire + Aggie Tower Your memories of Dave and your comments: I met Dave back when I first started in the seacoast with a private ambulance service. The very first time I met him at York Fire he treated you like he knew you your whole life. He was very knowledgeable in the fire service and willing to help anyone at any time. He is probably the best when it came to spotting fires from the tower. I was told not to long ago he spotted a smoke here in Milton that no other towers could spot (we are in valley) and hit the spot within couple hundred feet. At that distance he has eagle eyes. It was him along with a few others that talked me into joining SMFN, so they could get reports from the the Carroll Cnty area. Dave was a special person who can not be duplicated. My thoughts and prayers to the Hilton family, York Village FD, and the brotherhood of firefighters for this great loss. God Bless

Wednesday 05/28/2003 12:56:58am Name: Trish Goodell Where you are from: York...now in Florida Fire Department/Agency: E-Mail: How long you've known Dave: 22+ years Where you know Dave from: Married for 7 years Your memories of Dave and your comments: My deepest sympathy goes out to the Hilton family and to my children who have lost their father. May God be with you and comfort you during this sad time.

Wednesday 05/28/2003 12:25:35am Name: bill retzel Where you are from: yonkers ny Fire Department/Agency: fdny retired E-Mail: How long you've known Dave: met him once Where you know Dave from: york fire station Your memories of Dave and your comments: the only time i ever saw dave was once at the yfd village station about a year ago. me and my wife had driven from ny to see the maine coastline. we got off 95 and went down rt.1 to a store and asked somone how to get to the beaches. this man was dave hilton. his eyes popped open when i told him i was from fdny. he took me back to the firestation to trade shirts but he couldnt find a key to the shirt locker. dave gave up directions to the beach and we were on our way. my wife said he was a good guy and i told her what happened she almost cryed. thanks for the hospitality and you will be in our hearts forever ladder 5

Wednesday 05/28/2003 10:54:10am Name: Russ Ricker Where you are from: Fire Department/Agency: New England FOOLS E-Mail: Loot61@aol.com How long you've known Dave: Never had the pleasure of meeting him Where you know Dave from: Your memories of Dave and your comments: The New England FOOLS would like to extend our deepest sympathies to the Hilton family and the York Fire Dept. You will be in our thoughts and in our prayers. We will be in your community tomorrow evening after 7pm at Marko's on Woodbridge Rd. Any of the York Brothers and Sisters that would like to talk or simply be around some other Brothers and Sisters from New England, please feel free to stop by the meeting. Russ... http://www.vectored.net/fools/

Wednesday 05/28/2003 7:13:49am Name: Oscar Somerset Where you are from: Somersworth NH Fire Department/Agency: E-Mail: sm4341@msn.com How long you've known Dave: 10+ years Where you know Dave from: SMFNA Your memories of Dave and your comments: Shortly after I joined SMFNA, Dave instructed me in the fine art of Firewatching at Mt. Agamenticus. I truly enjoyed his woods fire stories, and the time he spent teaching me the ropes. I know that Dave will be missed by his many friends. My sincere condolences to His family.

Wednesday 05/28/2003 1:51:59am Name: Linda Dion Where you are from: Wells, Maine Fire Department/Agency: York communications Dept E-Mail: How long you've known Dave: Where you know Dave from: Your memories of Dave and your comments: MY deepest sympathy to the Hilton Family. I am at a loss of words to ease your sorrow but hope you take comfort in the knowledge that so many care.

Tuesday 05/27/2003 9:41:48pm Name: ed babineau Where you are from: fitchburg mass. Fire Department/Agency: fitchburg aux. f. d. E-Mail: ebabs12345@aol.com How long you've known Dave: scince 1980 Where you know Dave from: muster leagues Your memories of Dave and your comments: we met by accident 2 groups compteting in a muster. we were invited to york in the summer of 1980 and we still go to the field days. Dave was one of the first ones to welcome us,we struck up a friendship through the years and would meet a couple times a year. He was dedicated to the department and it shows in his son. the department will truly miss him.

Tuesday 05/27/2003 9:26:09pm Name: Ethan Hayes Where you are from: St. Johnsbury, VT Fire Department/Agency: St. Johnsbury FD / Peacham FD E-Mail: ehayes35@fastmail.fm How long you've known Dave: Where you know Dave from: Training burn on Route 1, Feb. 2001 Your memories of Dave and your comments: Dave was the chauffeur of Engine 8 when I rode to the training burn with my friend Paul Balentine. Although I only met him briefly, I'm sure he was a great person and will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to his friends and family.

Tuesday 05/27/2003 9:12:54pm Name: Ed Soomre Where you are from: Northboro MA Fire Department/Agency: Northboro FD (former firefighter)/FFLA E-Mail: classe@charter.net How long you've known Dave: Where you know Dave from: His book %22From York to the Allagash%22 Your memories of Dave and your comments: Although I have never met Dave, I am very sadened to hear about his passing away. I enjoy his book which I have read through many times. We have truly have lost a great friend !!

Tuesday 05/27/2003 9:00:52pm Name: Brian Starkey Where you are from: York Fire Department/Agency: York FD C4 retired E-Mail: tac9c101@maine.rr.com How long you've known Dave: along time Where you know Dave from: York FD, Aggy Tower, SMFNA Your memories of Dave and your comments: Wow how do i start, I have known Dave for many years we would ride the jump seats together on engine 5 (now 6) and then we would arrive at the station from different directions and he would run for 1 truck and i would run for the other. I'm gonna miss talking with Dave and exchanging the war stories. York fire has truly lost an asset to the dept. To the brothas of the south side and to the Hilton family we will keep you in our prayers. The Starkey Family

Tuesday 05/27/2003 8:18:17pm Name: Kevin Spinney Where you are from: Eliot Fire Department/Agency: Portsmouth Naval Shipyard & Eliot E-Mail: firedawg1322@aol.com How long you've known Dave: Long time Where you know Dave from: Fire Service Your memories of Dave and your comments: My condolences go out to Dave's family and all of the York F.D. May he rest in peace.

Tuesday 05/27/2003 4:09:15pm Name: Kristyn Goodell Where you are from: Maine/ NH Fire Department/Agency: None E-Mail: kristyn_goodell@yahoo.com How long you've known Dave: Never met... Where you know Dave from: My stepbrother and stepsister's father Your memories of Dave and your comments: I'm very sorry to hear about their father and hope everything will be okay for the family.

Tuesday 05/27/2003 9:31:05am Name: DaveO'Brien Where you are from: Kittery Fire Department/Agency: Kittery Fire Department E-Mail: obie2000@attbi.com How long you've known Dave: a long time Where you know Dave from: Your memories of Dave and your comments: The firefighters from both houses of the Kittery Fire Department offer condolences to the Hilton Family. Dave's memory will long outlast all of us because of his devoted interest to the men and women of the fire service. There is a special place for firefighters upon passing and I believe Dave is sitting at the executive table offering up his opinions and making things happen. We will all miss you Dave.

Monday 05/26/2003 11:40:05pm Name: Mark W. Gay Where you are from: York Beach Fire Department/Agency: York Beach Fire Dept. E-Mail: cappy241@aol.com How long you've known Dave: 30+ years Where you know Dave from: York Your memories of Dave and your comments: Where in world do I begin? I first met Dave at his parents house when I used to take my snowmobile to have his father repair it back in the early 70s. After I joined York Beach and started in the running events at field days he was running with us before he was old enough to join the FD. He continued to run after joining. We had some good times. I remember one halloween when he threw an egg at my car and if I had ever caught him I don't know what I would have done. He told me awhile after that it was him. He used to bring it up every once in awhile. Then he got me into Southern Maine. He was one of the best people in the tower and he was a great E-bayer with all those bottles. How can we ever forget him and his Engine 4. Dave I will always remember you and keep everyone safe up there. He could always tell someone on SMFNA where any street was in any town. I thought that was just amazing. He doesn't know this at least I don't think he does but I was on his call and tried to help. Its been tough. My sincere condolences to Diane, Nick, Laura, and parents, and also the York Fire Dept. I am truely sorry for your loss.

Monday 05/26/2003 11:13:16pm Name: Tim Cook Where you are from: New London, CT Fire Department/Agency: former Portsmouth Herald photog E-Mail: t.cook@theday.com How long you've known Dave: two years Where you know Dave from: covering fires for the Herald Your memories of Dave and your comments: Dave was my main contact to email photos to SMFNA and YFD from the Portsmouth Herald. At first my own shots then the photos from the entire Herald photo staff. He taught me a lot about what to look for at a fire scene and safety issues while I was there. He was the voice on high from Mt. Aggie over SMFNA radio as I was heading to a fire somewhere. I visited Dave in the fire tower on quiet sunny days and we would talk for longer then my editors would have liked. He was a great man, and will be dearly missed.

Monday 05/26/2003 9:37:38pm Name: Ben Gore Where you are from: Acton, Maine Fire Department/Agency: Acton Fire/York County Communications E-Mail: ben@hrdent.com How long you've known Dave: 6 or 7 years Where you know Dave from: Communications/Fire Service Your memories of Dave and your comments: I certainly didn't know Dave as well as some - it was mostly through occasional discussions about the UHF fire radio system or other communications issues. I was always impressed by his professionalism and passion for everything he did. He was one of the best, if not THE best ambassador for all of the the causes he was part of. I am sorry I didn't know him better. My sincere condolences to all of his family and friends.

Monday 05/26/2003 7:40:34pm Name: Jason Cleary Where you are from: Somersworth, NH Fire Department/Agency: Lieutenant, Portsmouth NH FD E-Mail: jman5@attbi.com How long you've known Dave: 10 years Where you know Dave from: Portsmouth Dispatch, SMFNA Your memories of Dave and your comments: Dave was a big-hearted person, always willing to give you the proverbial "shirt off his back". He was one of the best fire disptachers we've ever had in Portsmouth. His proficiency at dispatching came from his love for the job of firefighting. That isn't something that you develop, it's something you're born with. Whether it was sending us out on "a medical" from the Portsmouth Dispatch Center or calling us from Aggie with a fire he'd spotted in Stokels field, Dave was always on the job. He will be missed.

Monday 05/26/2003 6:32:35pm Name: Alison (Woodward) Thompson Where you are from: Dover, NH Fire Department/Agency: E-Mail: How long you've known Dave: Pretty much my entire life Where you know Dave from: my father, Bruce Woodward Your memories of Dave and your comments: I have known Dave for many years. I was a lucky little girl, growing up next to the fire station, I not only had my dad, Bruce, but I had a whole station full of fathers. After getting over being teased by all them, I learned an important lesson- Stand up for what you believe, but don't forget to have fun. I don't remember Dave all that well, but I feel through my dad's stories I got to know him. My prayer's and thoughts are the Hilton's. Dave will be missed greatly by all who have had the pleasure to know him.

Monday 05/26/2003 6:13:45pm Name: John Bolduc Where you are from: East Derry NH Fire Department/Agency: NH Statewide Notification Assn E-Mail: n1qgs@yahoo.com How long you've known Dave: 12 years Where you know Dave from: SMFNA Your memories of Dave and your comments: I visited Dave in the fire tower where we would often exchange photographs. Too young, just too young!

Monday 05/26/2003 4:38:10pm Name: Fred Ricker Where you are from: York . Fire Department/Agency: York E-Mail: clockfix@aol.com How long you've known Dave: forever Where you know Dave from: Friends of his Mom and Dad/fellow firema Your memories of Dave and your comments: We are deeply saddened with Dave's passing.He was a great asset to our department and the fire service everywhere.When he did something it was done right and with the utmost of sincerety.He will be missed,but never forgotten. Fred and Sandra Ricker

Monday 05/26/2003 2:21:32pm Name: George (Ike) Eisenhauer Where you are from: Mt. Holly, Vermont Fire Department/Agency: Mt. Holly Fire and Rescue E-Mail: mh303@sover.net How long you've known Dave: I dident know dave Where you know Dave from: N/a Your memories of Dave and your comments: Dennis Spinney told me of the passing of Dave, and as a member of the Firefighters Brotherhood, I would like to send my deepest Sympathy to Daves Family and all the members of the York Fire Dept. It is painfull to give up one of our own.But I know that his Memorie will never your hearts, or your Firehouse.

Monday 05/26/2003 11:17:18am Name: Joseph Hubley Where you are from: Southborough, MA Fire Department/Agency: Southborough Fire / ECPS E-Mail: ECPS37@aol.com How long you've known Dave: 10 years Where you know Dave from: ECPS / Buff world Your memories of Dave and your comments: Fishing in York, Flo's hotdogs. Dave will be missed by all he touched. My condolences to his family and friends. His love and passion for the Fire Service will be known throughout generations to come. God bless.

Monday 05/26/2003 10:40:42am Name: Bill McCullough Where you are from: Lebanon, Maine Fire Department/Agency: East Lebanon Fire Department E-Mail: wcmc@psouth.net How long you've known Dave: a good 20-25 years anyway Where you know Dave from: FIYC, Fire Towers, YFD, SMFNA Your memories of Dave and your comments: Too many to number I'm sure! However, I got to know Dave in the Fire Investigators of York County. Then one day we were talking about the Fire Towers in York County. He suggested I open up Ossipee Tower. Ultimately I did right after a bad house fire in the Ross Corner area of Waterboro - which these eyes saw first and turned into Waterboro Fire Department via Dave, SMFNA and York County Dispatch. According to Dave I became the hero of the day. I think there were others who were more important! By that time I was also in SMFNA thanks to Dave. He has always been a wonderful friend along with his lovely wife. I will miss him beyond words! Bill

Monday 05/26/2003 9:30:28am Name: David Barker Where you are from: Fremont NH Fire Department/Agency: Fremont FD, NH Statewide Fire Notif. E-Mail: 2muchfun@attbi.com How long you've known Dave: since the 80's Where you know Dave from: Coastal area fire fighting & buffing Your memories of Dave and your comments: There can be no question the Lord has a need for someone to rehab a lookout, or incubate a notification network in the heavens. There’d be no finer leader of that calling than Dave Hilton. I fondly recall when SMFNA first started getting going in the 90’s, you’d always hear Dave yacking it up with someone - anyone… and he’d go on and on. My guess is that everyone came to love that about Dave. I found myself tuning in more…..not less. It was unheard of though, in the early days of buff networks to hear such calming, welcoming and friendly exchange, but no one could carry it on like Dave. It was the only way he could be! Anyone in the Seacoast knows of the contributions - and now voids – left behind by his service and passion to the state of the art. Even if it was “Mt Aggi on the air”. I recall a weekend at sea on the boat, and some weather was coming in. Dave even facilitated weather radar reports to help us get in safely before the storms hit. He knew every link, every chief, every channel and forestry asset in Maine and New Hampshire (& beyond), and judging by the fire service responses here, that extends far and wide throughout New England. On behalf of NH Statewide Fire Notification Association, our deepest condolences to the Hilton Family & the town of York. May his family take peace in Dave’s amazing grace, and his passion for all he encountered. All of us who were touched by Dave have no doubt he is on the air now, watching over us all…. As Chief Plummer wrote……Tennn foah

Monday 05/26/2003 7:59:30am Name: ED MAHEUX Where you are from: MOULTONBOROUGH NH Fire Department/Agency: RED HILL LOOKOUT / MOULTONBORO FIRE / RE E-Mail: MAHEUX_E@MSN.COM How long you've known Dave: MANY YEARS Where you know Dave from: AGGIE LOOKOUT Your memories of Dave and your comments: HIS SPRIT WILL ALWAYS BE LOOKING OVER MT AGGIE LOOKOUT. HE WILL BE REMEMBERED BY ALL THE LOOKOUTS IN NH.

Monday 05/26/2003 2:45:51am Name: Ray Taylor Where you are from: West Warwick RI Fire Department/Agency: Providence Citywide Fire Network E-Mail: pcfn4@cox.net How long you've known Dave: last few years Where you know Dave from: Fire buff events Your memories of Dave and your comments: As a fellow buff my condolences go out to dave,s family and friends in this time of sorrow, Im sure dave will be in our hearts for a long time to come. I had met him a few times at fires and events and i am deeply saddened by this untimly passing. May he rest in peace and he will never be forgotten by his brothers and sisters in the fire service.

Sunday 05/25/2003 10:55:15pm Name: David Kudden Where you are from: Fairfield, Me Fire Department/Agency: Fairfield fire dept , Explorer Post 400 E-Mail: luddend@gwi.net How long you've known Dave: 7 years Where you know Dave from: York Fire & SMFNA Your memories of Dave and your comments: I met Dave 7 years ago when we made a trip to York for a muster with the Explorers form Fairfield. A great friend ship was formed from that day on. Dave got me to page with the same pageing group that he was and the memories of spend a evening puting together bits and pieces to complete a page will not be forgoten. Dave was the one that help me secure Yorks old tank 2 for use with the Fairfield Explorers. And it is still used for that purpose today. Dave was a true friend as well as a brother firefighter and always had the time to make you feel welcome. My taughts and Prayers go out to Daves family. May God be at your sides always Dave Ludden SM411, C411

Sunday 05/25/2003 10:49:07pm Name: PJ Johnson Where you are from: The end of the earth Fire Department/Agency: Kittery Point Fire Station E-Mail: SandPJohnson@ ATTBI.com How long you've known Dave: 5 years? Where you know Dave from: The Point & The Village Your memories of Dave and your comments: Chief Edward F. Croker of the FDNY once said " I have no ambition in this world but one, and that is to become a fireman..." We will all miss Dave's dedication and affliation to the fire service. Dave has affected so many by his presence on the fire ground, in the tower or his through his many communications within the fire community. I will miss his diserertations in such topics as "fluid delivery", "hydraulic engineering", "chaufeer edicate", and "rural high altitude watchkeeping". Dave's experience and insight has had a tremendous influence on me and has had a positive impact on my abilities. We are all at a loss without him. Dave has had a incredible affect in the development of the devoted bond within the YORK/KITTERY brotherhood.I can't even begin to remeber the scenario's for witch we discussed, over the years. Dave I hope your watching over us from the great fire tower in the sky and will guide us thru peril in a greater capacity. You will be greatly missed by us all.

Sunday 05/25/2003 9:44:53pm Name: Frank San Severino Where you are from: Attleboro, MA Fire Department/Agency: Lexington MA. Fire Dispatch E-Mail: franksfireengines@hot,ail.com How long you've known Dave: 28 years Where you know Dave from: FD, buffing, Southern Maine Your memories of Dave and your comments: I met Dave some 28 years ago. A few friends and I came up for the York FD Field Day in 1975. Dave came right up to us and introduced himself, and made us feel welcome and at home. Over the years Dave and I developed a friendship. Neither one of us thought twice about asking for a favor when we need it. Dave, was that rare breed of man who never tired of showing his love for the fire service, his hometown, family and the Seacoast area. I could never pass by the station with out stopping to see if Dave was around. If he was, my long suffering wife would wait in the car well we played catch up. He will be missed by family and friends. His passing will leave a void in all who knew him. I am proud to have called him my friend. May his soul rest in eternal peace.

Sunday 05/25/2003 9:29:35pm Name: Dan Peterson Where you are from: Goshen, NH Fire Department/Agency: Forest Fire Warden, Deputy Fire Chief E-Mail: captain326@prodigy.net How long you've known Dave: 4 Years Where you know Dave from: Old Bottles, and Mutual Fire Interest Your memories of Dave and your comments: Dear Diane, Nick, Laura, and the family and friends of Dave. Our sincere condolences go out to you all. Dave and I actually met out of the fire field and in the mist of a huge antique bottle deal. I was looking for someone to buy a few thousand bottles. I had recieved a phone call from him with-in minutes of me getting home, from York, where I had just left my number hours earlier. Dave, Diane, and their bottle associate came up to get these and they were all a little surprised to find out that they would have to make an extra trip up to get them all. These bottles just kept seem to be multipling. I fiqured they would lose half of them by the time the got back to York. This was do to the trucks were loaded so high, and it was frost heave season. Well they made it and this is where Dave and I became instant friends do to the mutual interest in the fire field. Dave introduced me to the Southern Maine Fire Log Web Site. Dave was looking for info from this region of NH. Not only was I sending him info for the fire log, but I was able to create a friendship where I could pick his brain for help, guidence, and get a different perspective of what any situation maybe. Dave always had the honesty with me that you do not always find out their in the field today. Dave would rave about his York Fire Department. He would always send me the articles anything it was always here. I do not know of a prouder parent than Dave was of his son Nick becoming a member of the York Department. I had been to the York station several times and Dave gave us the grand tour, and we had to kind of cut it short for I felt we were cutting into training time. He was taking some young firefighters out for training. He always seemed to like the new fire fighters because he obviously was bridging the gap with his knowledge, from what he learned from the now retired fire fighters. So to all of you that have had the chance to have know and worked with Fire Fighter Dave Hilton you were simply working with the best. I am sure Dave will always be watching over us all from top of the tower. Thanks Dave, Your Friend Dan

Sunday 05/25/2003 8:16:56pm Name: Donald F. Gelinas Where you are from: Somersworth, NH Fire Department/Agency: Derry, NH Fire Department (Retired) E-Mail: bernier@worldpath.net How long you've known Dave: 6 years Where you know Dave from: SMFNA and the fire tower Your memories of Dave and your comments: Dave was my first contact when, I joined So. Maine Fire. I liked him right away. Dave was also my mentor when learning the ropes at the fire tower. I never saw a person who was more dedicated to forestry and fire service. Dave's death will be a great loss for York, Me, the fire service and forestry. Let us all keep his family and Dave in our prayers. Don Gelinas SM 435 Derry Fire Dept Retired.

Sunday 05/25/2003 5:45:02pm Name: Dean ( Luke) Bearor Where you are from: Westbrook, Me. Fire Department/Agency: Westbrook Frie Dept., TAC 9 Radio C220 E-Mail: FFWFDL1@aol.com How long you've known Dave: 12 years Where you know Dave from: YFD, TAC9, SMFNA, Fire Tower Your memories of Dave and your comments: I have known Dave since the day that I moved to York. I learned alot from Dave in my time as a member of the York Fire Dept. Dave and my father also showed me the ropes of working in the Fire Tower. Thats just the beginning of my memories. There are too many to list. You will be sadly missed. My best to family. REST IN PEACE BROTHER

Sunday 05/25/2003 5:00:58pm Name: Richard Wood Where you are from: Eliot, Maine Fire Department/Agency: Eliot Fire Chief (Retired) E-Mail: dickathy@earthlink.net How long you've known Dave: A long time Where you know Dave from: Fire Service, Tower Your memories of Dave and your comments: He liked to call me with a smoke check at meal time.Some we found a few we didn't. He was able to put you within yards of the smoke and most of the time he had you in the driveway of the house. It was he and Plumer who started the Chief Brown thing and I'm still not sure which one to blame. To Mrs. Hilton (I always called her Mrs. Hilton) and all of Dave's family my condolences. Good-by my friend

Sunday 05/25/2003 3:54:14pm Name: Jeff Libby Where you are from: Berwick, Maine Fire Department/Agency: Berwick Fire Dept. E-Mail: FFter00@Yahoo.Com How long you've known Dave: 3 Years Where you know Dave from: SMFNA Your memories of Dave and your comments: I only knew Dave for 3 years and only met him a couple of times. He was a great guy and will be sadly missed by all of us. SM831

Sunday 05/25/2003 12:58:08am Name: Zack Harmon Where you are from: Kennebunk, ME Fire Department/Agency: Kennebunk Fire Central Station E-Mail: zackster@adelphia.net How long you've known Dave: 15 years Where you know Dave from: York Fire Department Your memories of Dave and your comments: Dave was one of the guys who "took me under his wing" when I was 21 and joined York Fire. Dave taught me many things about the pride and honor there is in being a firefighter, and his level of dedication to everything concerning the fire service was unparallelled. He loved to teach and would always answer your questions with enthusiasm and a desire to help. One of the neatest things about Dave that I will remember is his respect for the older firefighters who paved the way for all of us. Dave would always enjoy listening to the older guys stand and talk about the fires they had years ago, and the good times they all had in the fire service and the brotherhood that exists in it. I had a lot of respect for Dave, and he will be missed. God Speed, Dave...thanks for being my friend and mentor when I needed one. Diane, Nick, Laura, Mr. and Mrs. Hilton, and the members of York Fire Department: my most sincere condolences on your loss. There are no words that are just right at times like these, but please know my thoughts are with you all. Rest in peace, Dave.

Sunday 05/25/2003 12:43:57am Name: Mike Spinney Where you are from: Rollinsford Fire Department/Agency: Somersworth & Rollinsford E-Mail: nhprofyrman@yahoo.com How long you've known Dave: Many years Where you know Dave from: F.D. & family friend Your memories of Dave and your comments: My condolences to Dave's family, friends, and the York FD family. I was shocked to hear of it. My father had been with him earlier in the day doing what Dave liked to do, scratching the ground looking for old stuff. He will be sadly missed.

Sunday 05/25/2003 11:42:21am Name: Louise Donato Where you are from: Berlin NH Fire Department/Agency: E-Mail: maldon@ncia.net How long you've known Dave: 16 years Where you know Dave from: He is my brother in law Your memories of Dave and your comments: If your a person who does not belive in love at first sight, think again because this is exactily what happened when Dave met Diane, there are not enough words to discribe the unselfish and outstanding decatation he had for his wife and family. I am very grateful that he was a part of our family. And I thank all the men and women of the York Fire Depaprtment and York PD for suppporting my sister, Nick, Laura, and Mr.& Mrs. Hilton during these diffucult days.

Sunday 05/25/2003 10:54:30am Name: Roger Cullen Where you are from: Eliot,Maine Fire Department/Agency: Kittery Police Dept. Sgt/Retired E-Mail: RCullen11@attbi.com How long you've known Dave: 5 years Where you know Dave from: SMFNA Your memories of Dave and your comments: I have spent many hours sitting by the scanner listening to Dave. I will miss his conversations with fellow members, the fire information, and yes the warnings of pending thunderstorms . To the Hilton family may your years of happiness and your good memories enable you to live with this sad loss Sincerely SM#522

Sunday 05/25/2003 9:56:50am Name: Bill and Iris Baird Where you are from: Lancaster NH Fire Department/Agency: FFLA -- fire lookout history E-Mail: iwbaird@ncia.net How long you've known Dave: ten years or so Where you know Dave from: fire lookout history Your memories of Dave and your comments: Bill and I send our deepest sympathy to the family and to the fire department people. Dave and I shared a lot of information about fire towers, history, photos and so on, over the past several years, and in fact I had been trying to send him some more info on Squaw Mt. tower this past winter, when his e-mail box was full. We had the greatest respect for him as a person, and for the work he did on Maine's tower history. It's a real loss to us as well as to you folks. God bless you all.

Sunday 05/25/2003 9:51:30am Name: Dennis Spinney Where you are from: Eliot Maine Fire Department/Agency: Asst. Chief Portsmouth Shipyard-retired E-Mail: spin30c2@yahoo.com How long you've known Dave: 20 plus years Where you know Dave from: York Fire Department Your memories of Dave and your comments: I've know Dave since he first joined the York FD. It didn't take long, cause he saw to that. He was and is a true firefighters, firefighter. I can't help but remember all the times we shot the breeze during his time with Seacoast Fire Extinguishers when I would bring him over a truck load of cylinders for testing. Then there were all the fires, haz-mats, and training we were at together, not one that we didn't hook up for a least a little while. Besides his dedication to the fire service and family, Dave had another passion that one had to share with him to see exactly how strong it was, his bottle collection. Dave recently called me to see if I would join him in helping to locate some old dumping sites. We set up a time of 1230 on the 17th of this month. When I arrived at our meeting point, there sat Dave with his nose buried in a bottle book. We walked several hundred yards to a wooded site that he had located earlier, and the gleam in his eyes was one that someone would have to see to appreciate. He was like a kid in a candy store as I was able to locate a couple more areas with my metal detector. When I recovered an old musket ball, Dave went from the candy store to a full-blown toy store. You just had to be there. I left Dave that fateful afternoon with many more plans for future hunts together, and brother I want you right by my side when I try carrying out some of those plans. I have many mixed emotions about those last few hours I spent with Dave, but I wouldn't trade them for anything. I'm really going to miss you buddy. The e-mails, the phone calls, the hunts, the fires, the radio transmissions, everything! My sincerest sympathy to Di, Laura, Nick, the whole Hilton Family, and the York Fire Department Family.

Sunday 05/25/2003 9:48:05am Name: Mike Moore Where you are from: York Fire Department/Agency: York Beach E-Mail: How long you've known Dave: 22 Yrs Where you know Dave from: Family Friend Your memories of Dave and your comments: Dave you were a one and only. Nothing will ever replace you. You will never be forgotton we love you and we miss you. My condolences to Diane, Nick and laura.

Sunday 05/25/2003 7:58:38am Name: Mike Guzzi Where you are from: Waltham Mass Fire Department/Agency: Newton Mass Fire Dept Eng-6 E-Mail: nefnn_fire_pagin@nefnn.com How long you've known Dave: I have known Dave since 1990 Where you know Dave from: Nefnn fire paging in the early days Your memories of Dave and your comments: Dave was one of the first Nefnn Fire Paging dispatchers from Maine in the early 90's. He never missed a fire. I use to visit with Dave and Rick Plummer when we started Nefnn in the NH and Maine areas. Dave will be missed by many. God bless you brother and your family.

Sunday 05/25/2003 1:11:26am Name: Jim Foley Where you are from: Deer Isle, ME Fire Department/Agency: Deer Isle FD, Asst. Chief, E-Mail: jgfoley@gwi.net How long you've known Dave: 20+ years Where you know Dave from: SMFNA, York Village FD Your memories of Dave and your comments: I will always remember the days when Dave was hydro testing bottles at Sea Coast Fire in Portsmouth, NH. He always had a scanner going and NEVER missed a call. (He always had a scanner that could hear what everyone couldn't) The gears in his head were always turning and and he talked and dreamed about what has become SMFNA. I remember when the state cut funding on fire towers and shut them down. David was very upset and said he was going to do something about it. We all know the results of that! The service that David and the crew of Mt. Aggie has provided will become legend in the fire service. David's love of the fire service and his enthusiasim was contageous. He lit the spark in many present firefighters. As we continue to remember and talk about David in the future, his memory will continue to light the spark in many future firefighters. After I relocated to Deer Isle from Kittery Pt., David always kept me up to date via email about what's up in Southern Maine and the Sea Coast. He has been a great friend and I will forever miss him. I always looked forward to seeing David in my "in box". My heart goes out to Di and the Kids, his family, York Village FD, and to his many friends.

Sunday 05/25/2003 0:29:27am Name: Peter Harrison Where you are from: Hope Valley, RI Fire Department/Agency: former FF Ashaway, RI E-Mail: aa1pl@cox.net How long you've known Dave: never met him Where you know Dave from: Fire Looout Website Your memories of Dave and your comments: Dave was well known all around new England. I loved visiting his website on the Fire lookouts of New England. I was shocked to find out that he passed away. I pray that his family, friends and department members will take comfort in the memory of his life and in God's faithfulness. Rest in peace Dave.

Saturday 05/24/2003 11:23:20pm Name: David McBeth Where you are from: Amesbury, MA Fire Department/Agency: E-Mail: dave.mcbeth@verizon.net How long you've known Dave: 5 Years Where you know Dave from: SMFNA Your memories of Dave and your comments: Dave welcomed me and got me started on SMFNA when I first joined 5 years ago, he even offered to have me up to his house to program one of my radios. It will not be the same not hearing his voice on the air. My thoughts go out to the Hilton family and members of the York Fire Dept. Rest in peace Dave, you will not be forgotten. SM976

Saturday 05/24/2003 10:31:47pm Name: Lindley Deering Where you are from: recently Limerick - presently Raymond Fire Department/Agency: former Waterboro Dept member E-Mail: tradition@pivot.net How long you've known Dave: 6 years Where you know Dave from: first as President of SMFNA Your memories of Dave and your comments: For the past six years I remember Dave as watching over southern York County and New Hampshire from Mt Aggie and being the center of SMFNA until he stepped down as President. He was always there to help others in any way he could especially his firefighter brothers and sisters. Dave was an Icon in the firefighter community and I will miss hearing his voice and comments and his service to our community. Although I never had the pleasure of meeting his immediate family members, my deepest and heartfelt sympathy go out to them and may god be with them during this time of sorrow.

Saturday 05/24/2003 9:58:12pm Name: Karyn Cote Where you are from: Keene, NH Fire Department/Agency: Pitcher Mountain Lookout E-Mail: bkcote@monad.net How long you've known Dave: 2 years Where you know Dave from: A visit to Agamenticus Your memories of Dave and your comments: I first met Dave while talking on a low band radio network. Soon after my husband and I took a trip to Maine and called him on the cell phone to see if he had some time to give us a tour of Mt. Agamenticus tower. His reply was yes and the visit was great! Soon after I learned he collected Stoddard glass and when he came through NH he would stop in at Pitcher Mountain for a visit on his way home. I'll miss those visits. My thoughts and prayers are with the Hilton family.

Saturday 05/24/2003 9:57:27pm Name: Andy Biron Where you are from: Manchester, NH Fire Department/Agency: Manchester Fire Engine Co. 11 Trk Co. 1 E-Mail: Andy@NHFirenews.com How long you've known Dave: Lost count Where you know Dave from: Fire Buff Networks Your memories of Dave and your comments: Dave was and will always be a true firemen's firemen. I will miss you Dave and may God Bless his family and the Bothers and Sisters of York FD.

Saturday 05/24/2003 8:18:30pm Name: Mark Dellner Where you are from: Rochester, NH Fire Department/Agency: Rochester Fire Department E-Mail: mark.dellner@rochesternh.net How long you've known Dave: 15 years Where you know Dave from: Our Local Fire Service Brotherhood Your memories of Dave and your comments: They don't come any better than Dave Hilton. He was "genuine" in every sense of the word. What you saw with that man was what you got, plain & simple. Our world would be a better place if more people lived with Daves outlook. He has touched all of us in many ways. Whenever I would call Dave, we'de end up talking and laughing for a long time about all kinds of things and he made you feel better just by spending time talking or hanging out with him. When I saw his operation at his house, I told him he has more radios and technical equipment than many small countries around the world, certainly more than our Pentagon. I used to kid Dave all the time that even as Fire Chief, I first heard of many of our working fires by his all too-familiar voice over Southern Maine before hearing my own radios issued by my department. Dave's only bigger priority in his life other than the fire service was his love for his family. Dave, we miss you and we always will. Condolences to the entire Hilton family and the members of the York Fire Department. God bless you and Dave.....till we meet again friend.

Saturday 05/24/2003 7:45:45pm Name: Bruce Hickox Where you are from: Taunton, MA Fire Department/Agency: TAC9 Radio/Paging E-Mail: affiliates@tac9.com How long you've known Dave: 10 years Where you know Dave from: Fire Buffing Your memories of Dave and your comments: I first met Dave when I was negotiating a reciprocal agreement between Providence Citywide Fire Network & Southern Maine Notification. We chatted for hours. We talked about sharing the frequency 463.775 Mhz. Dave could hear fires throughout the Northeast from his home and the fire tower. Most recently he became a dispatcher for the TAC9 Paging network. Dave would get out of bed in the middle of the night to send a page so it wouldn't be missed. His dedication to whatever he did was overwhelming. We at TAC9 will surely miss him. Our sympathy goes out to his family and friends.

Saturday 05/24/2003 7:09:35pm Name: Rick Plummer Where you are from: Biddeford/Saco Fire Department/Agency: Biddeford FD, SMFNA E-Mail: rplumme2@maine.rr.com How long you've known Dave: 25 years Where you know Dave from: FD, SMFNA, Tower ETC ,ETC Your memories of Dave and your comments: Dave, I Love you, brother, life will not be the same. We spent many hours together forming SMFNA, yapping while you filled extinguishers, dispatch, the tower; where do I start or stop. I miss you already. We will all help Nick, Laura and Di,and watch out for them. I love you all. God Bless. We will see each other again my friend, until then take care !!! My sincere condolences to the Hilton Family. Good Bye for now my Friend 10-4 Rick, SM91

Saturday 05/24/2003 7:03:53pm Name: Jason Cullen Where you are from: Eliot, Maine Fire Department/Agency: Eliot Fire E-Mail: Cull527@aol.com How long you've known Dave: 5yrs Where you know Dave from: Portsmouth Dispatch Your memories of Dave and your comments: Dave and I used to work together at Portsmouth Dispatch. There was no question what side of the desk he like to work on. Every day he'd show up for work early. Not because he liked being there, but becuase he wanted to work fire dispatch. Dave was an excellent fire dispatcher. Before we started working together I loved listening to him dispatch working fires and etc. It was a great honor to work along side of Dave, even though a majority of the time i was on police side. After Dave had left the center it was still great to converse with him on the radio. With his eagle eyes bearing down over the seacost region up in the fire tower. You always knew that if Dave calls for you on the radio, he has spotted something and the majority of the time it is a fire of some sort. He is surely going to be missed by many. Dave if there is a fire tower up there in heaven I know that you'll be in it.

Saturday 05/24/2003 6:50:53pm Name: Steven Sullivan Where you are from: Portsmouth Fire Department/Agency: E-Mail: Stevesullivan217@aol.com How long you've known Dave: 12 years Where you know Dave from: S.M.F.N.A Your memories of Dave and your comments: I met Dave when I first joined SMFNA back in 1991. I remember fishing with him and his son Nick around the York Harbor area back in the early 90s. It had been a long while since I had spoken with Dave, and last Friday night on May 16th I sent Dave an e-mail. I was just saying hi and had a question for him. He was also on line and returned mail right away. We sent 3-4 returns back and forth. He told me about his family and said everyone was doing fine. I could not believe it when he stated Nick was now 20 and was a York firefighter. We both stated how much time had flown buy. We left it with my saying I would stop buy this summer and say hello in person, and as usual Dave said his door is always open and he would be around. I am so lucky to have known Dave, and I thank God that him and I spoke last week. I will miss you Dave...

Saturday 05/24/2003 6:23:07pm Name: Joshua J McCann Where you are from: You Know where the Mountain is right? Fire Department/Agency: York Fire Department E-Mail: joshua_mccann@msn.com How long you've known Dave: 20 Years Where you know Dave from: Everywhere Your memories of Dave and your comments: Dave was a man that taught us all many things about life, he had strong ideas on life and the tenacity to back them up. Dave taught me how to stick up for what I believe in and how to take pride in what you do, Dave had the experience and the knowledge that we all want to obtain through years of service through the fire department. We all learned from Dave and no one that knew him will forget him. Dave you will not go gentile into that goodnight for you will live on in the hearts of us all. My heart goes out to Nick, Laura and Diane who knew him better than anyone else. Dave you will be Missed.

Saturday 05/24/2003 6:06:39pm Name: Bruce Phillips Where you are from: Auburn NH Fire Department/Agency: Auburn MH / Manchester NH E-Mail: Fstick490@attbi.com How long you've known Dave: 10 Years Where you know Dave from: When we used to page together with NEFNN Your memories of Dave and your comments: Dave and I first met about 10 years ago when we both paged for NEFNN… Back then I could never figure out how he heard the fires he did but after an invitation to visit his home in York I soon realized how he heard what he did… Sitting up high in York and with more radios and antenna’s than a dispatch center it was no wonder nothing got by him… I found that short of Scott Rice, if you needed a frequency for someone in the area or Dave thought you didn’t have something new it was only a single call or e-mail and you soon had what you needed… We would soon keep in closer touch, but looking back now, I guess not close enough… I remember the entertaining Friday nights at the Old Salt in Hampton where watching Dave eat a fish fry special was always a treat, and he was always guaranteed a doggy bag… Dave became his own entrepreneur selling on e-bay and was doing real well with it… I remember buying a postcard from him a couple years ago and rather than him shipping it, I made the trip to visit Dave and check out what else he might have… As I walked into his cellar radio control center I noticed that it was fast being overcome with his postcards and bottles that he was selling… I remember him looking at me and saying, “See this, pointing to his treasures waiting for sale on e-bay, this is all because of you, if you didn’t tell me about e-bay and how easy it was to sell I wouldn’t be doing it, and you know what he said, I’m doing ok at it”… Every visit to Dave’s was always good for a trip to his favorite hot dog stand… Dave would rave about how great they were and the homemade relish that was a must to try, and as always he was right… His love for Southern Maine was quite obvious by the amount of time he’d put into it… I sometimes figured the group could have made a better profit by letting hunters subscribe to it, cause god only knows they talked about all the deer they would see… Dave was always very proud of his fire department affiliation and that fact that his son was getting involved in the fire service… Trips to Dave’s would usually mean a stop to check out new or refurbished fire apparatus, or a field trip to where the engine went off the road not far from his house… But I guess the most dearest and fondest memory I will always treasure about Dave is the fact that we both had something very special and would always joke about it, even after my son was born on the same day many years later, we both had the identical birthday, November 17th 1960… Rest in Peace old friend…

Saturday 05/24/2003 6:06:08pm Name: Dave Mercer Where you are from: Newburyport, MA Fire Department/Agency: Amesbury Fire Dept Lt retired E-Mail: afdltret@attbi.com How long you've known Dave: 10 years Where you know Dave from: Fire buffing Your memories of Dave and your comments: Dave was at home in the the fire tower and had a great love of the quiet outdoor life of northern New England. I had visited with him several times when he manned the "Aggie Tower" and his dedication to that and the York Fire Dept. was a true example of the best of the people that make up the fire service. He will certainly be missed

Saturday 05/24/2003 5:00:31pm Name: Ret. Asst.Chief Keith Goodrich Where you are from: Mount Hope Fire Tower -Sanford,Maine Fire Department/Agency: Sanford Fire Dept. E-Mail: firetower@metrocast.net How long you've known Dave: not long enough Where you know Dave from: Fire Service-TOWER-Southern Maine Fire Your memories of Dave and your comments: THE LAST ALARM: Dave,you will be missed.your EAGLE eye in the tower was unbelievable.Your fire reporting on Tac 9-Your radio & listening ability of fires it seems covered "everywhere" . Your efforts in forming Southern Maine Fire Notification and your drive to open the 3 York County Fire Towers was above and beyond.Its been fun- its been worth your efforts and WILL NOT BE FORGOTTEn for ever & for ever. Shirley & I give our thoughts and Sympathy to the whole family. and hopefully we can carry on with his memories & his teachings. THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES DAVE-C603 & THE CREW AT MOUNT HOPE FIRE TOWER

Saturday 05/24/2003 4:27:15pm Name: Paul Trahon Where you are from: Dedham, MA Fire Department/Agency: Brookline MA FD, East Coast Paging E-Mail: Paul@eastcoastpaging.com How long you've known Dave: 13 years Where you know Dave from: Fire buff world, Your memories of Dave and your comments: Totally dedicated! No matter what interests Dave was involved in he was a true professional. His knowledge and friendship will be missed. My condolences to the Hilton family and his extended Fire Department brothers.

Saturday 05/24/2003 4:12:08pm Name: Steve Hooke Where you are from: Holbrook, Ma. Fire Department/Agency: TAC-9 Radio/Paging E-Mail: tac9461@aol.com How long you've known Dave: Approx 10 years Where you know Dave from: Fire notification nets Your memories of Dave and your comments: My condolences to Dave's family. You will be sadly missed.

Saturday 05/24/2003 2:57:14pm Name: Andy Lucier Where you are from: Milton NH Fire Department/Agency: Milton Fire Chief E-Mail: lucier@metrocast.net How long you've known Dave: Approx. 20 years Where you know Dave from: First time I met Dave he was selling Ext Your memories of Dave and your comments: Where do you start. Dave always had an opinion and was always willing to share it whether you wanted to hear it or not. I spoke with Dave on a Bi weekly basis since I can remember from fires to where he can find a dump he can dig bottles in. Dave leaves a big void in alot of lives, but we all know that when the BIG ONE hits he will be there reporting. Rest in peace my friend. I will never forget the impact you had on my life and the service you provided the seacoast in protection. GOD SPEED!!!!

Saturday 05/24/2003 2:32:46pm Name: Steve harding Where you are from: Old Orchard Beach, ME Fire Department/Agency: SMFNA E-Mail: sharding@maine.rr.com How long you've known Dave: About 10 years Where you know Dave from: SMFNA Your memories of Dave and your comments: I got to know Dave through So. Me. Fire Notification Assoc. and then spent many days with him in the fire tower at MT Agamenticus as he taught me about spotting fires and using the equipment in the tower. He was a great friend and a wealth of knowledge when it came to fire towers and past history of fires in the area. He will be sadly missed by those who knew him. My deepest condolences to his wife and family.

Saturday 05/24/2003 2:29:31pm Name: Leon Chamblee Where you are from: Wells,Maine Fire Department/Agency: Retired North Berwick,Maine Fire Chief E-Mail: lchamble@maine.rr.com How long you've known Dave: 35 yrs Where you know Dave from: Agamenticus tower SMFNA Your memories of Dave and your comments: I met Dave for first time when his mother would bring him up to agamenticus fire tower he was about 9 years old at the time and he loved being at the tower he was my friend and I will miss him a lot

Saturday 05/24/2003 2:21:42pm Name: Zach Apgar Where you are from: York Fire Department/Agency: York Fire E-Mail: truckie8452@yahoo.com How long you've known Dave: All my life Where you know Dave from: YFD Your memories of Dave and your comments: I will never forget all the rides with Dave on the 4 Engine. All summer we would drive around and ride through the beach. Dave was a great driver who taught me a lot and will all ways be missed. A ride on Engine 4 will never be the same.

Saturday 05/24/2003 2:08:45pm Name: Chuck Cloughery Where you are from: Bradford,MA Fire Department/Agency: TAC-9 Paging E-Mail: djchuckyc@earthlink.net How long you've known Dave: Approximately 10 years Where you know Dave from: TAC-9 Paging & Portsmouth NH Dispatch Your memories of Dave and your comments: Dave and I worked in conjunction several times back in the early 90's while Dave was in Portsmouth as a Dispatcher while I dispatched in Newmarket, NH and more recently as a fellow Dispatcher for TAC-9 Paging. Dave will be sorely missed by all of us and my condolences and heartfelt sympathies go out to his wife and Children.May He Rest In Peace!

Saturday 05/24/2003 1:37:00pm Name: Ed Kearns Where you are from: Tewksbury Mass. Fire Department/Agency: Tewksbury Fire Dept. E-Mail: nhsn73@aol.com How long you've known Dave: 8 years Where you know Dave from: New Hampshire Statewide Notification Your memories of Dave and your comments: My condolences to the Hilton family and the brothers of the York Fire Dept.

Saturday 05/24/2003 1:16:51pm Name: Steve Felker Where you are from: Old Orchard Beach Fire Department/Agency: Southern Maine Fire Notification E-Mail: smfna@smfna.org How long you've known Dave: 11 Years Where you know Dave from: SMFNA Your memories of Dave and your comments: Dave was a great friend he will be sadly missed.

Saturday 05/24/2003 1:12:19pm Name: Skip Sullivan Where you are from: Hampton New Hampshire Fire Department/Agency: Hampton Fire Chief (Retired) E-Mail: skipsullivan2000@yahoo.com How long you've known Dave: 15 Years Where you know Dave from: SMFNA Your memories of Dave and your comments: If you look up "fire service dedication" in the dictionary, Dave Hilton's picture would be there. York will miss him, the seacoast will miss him and his many friends will miss him. Condolances to his family.