Retired Fire Chief Arthur Richardson, a 48-year veteran of the Boothbay Harbor Fire Department, was presented with the Bob Maxcy Lifetime Achievement Award at the Lincoln County Fire Chiefs Association's annual clambake in South Bristol on August 15. 

Alna Fire Chief Michael Trask, who is also the president of the Lincoln County Fire Chiefs Association, presented the award to Richardson. 

Richardson joined the department in May 1964. He served as fireman truck operator, was promoted to captain in 1971, assistant chief in 1972 and first assistant chief in 1973. He served as first assistant chief for 25 years. He was promoted to chief in 1998 and retired in 2000. 

He was instrumental in founding and starting the Boothbay Region Ambulance Service and served as a charter member. Through his persistent determination, he designed and obtained the current distinctive firefighter license plates, with the assistance from Marge Kilkelly, former State Representative and Secretary of State. 

He is still an active member of the Boothbay Harbor Fire Department.

Richardson graduated from Morse High School, Bath, in 1954. Upon graduation, he joined the Air Force where he served in Morocco during the Korean War from 1954 to 1962. Adding to his list of accomplishments, he served as Master of the Seaside Lodge #144 of the Freemasons in Boothbay Harbor, Commander of American Legion Post #36 of Boothbay Harbor, and is presently Worthy Patron of the Eastern Star Crescent Chapter #54 of Boothbay. 

He has been employed by Harold “Sonny” Simmons of Simmons & Harrington Funeral Home and Ambulance Service for 30 years. At 75 years young, Richardson is still employed for Simmons, Harrington & Hall Funeral Home, now under the direction of owner, Michael Hall, as well as Hall Funeral Home in Waldoboro for 21 years, culminating in 51 years of service for Simmons, Harrington & Hall Funeral Homes. 

Richardson has indeed devoted his life to graciously aiding friends and strangers alike, generously reaching out in difficult times of grief and need, striving to make a difference in our community and in the lives of others. For just one man, he has accomplished what many only dream of and is more than worthy to receive such a prestigious award of recognition.
The award is named for the late Bob Maxcy, who was Waldoboro's fire chief for over 40 years.