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Fairfax County’s newest fireboat was christened “The Maham” at Pohick Bay on Saturday, Oct. 25, honoring Captain Barry Maham, who died from occupational cancer earlier this year at age 50.
Mount Vernon Supervisor Dan Storck joined community members and Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department representatives for the ceremony. Maham devoted his career to protecting Fairfax County residents, particularly those in Mason Neck.
Storck said the state-of-the-art Gunston fireboat represents an important investment in waterway safety for people who live, work and spend time on the water. Naming the vessel for Maham, he said, will carry forward the captain’s courage and commitment to public service.
“We christen a promise, a promise to always be there to someone who calls for help,” one fire and rescue presenter said during the gathering.
Storck and Fire Chief John Butler later departed the Pohick docks aboard the new vessel.
The department previously christened Fire and Rescue Boat 420, “Gunston Hall,” in 2004.