Volunteer firemen install officers

Officers of the Rayne Volunteer Fire Department were installed by Judge Jim Cunningham during their annual banquet Monday night.
Allen “Noochie” Credeur serves as fire chief, while Joseph “Wa” Credeur is president of the firemen’s association.
During his remarks Mayor Chuck Robichaux said he hopes he and the new City Council can boost funds the city provides the volunteers who respond to fire calls.
The mayor also noted the department is currently working to improve the city’s fire rating to a four. The current rate is five.
After one month as mayor, Robichaux said, “It’s a lot more fun than I thought it would be.” He added he sees a bright future for Rayne.
Councilmen Ken Guidry and Jimmy Fontenot joined the mayor in thanking the volunteers for their contributions to the city.
Assistant State Fire Marshal Dan Wallis also addressed the firemen and their spouses.
In his remarks, Fire Chief Credeur cited previous volunteers “who worked to make a better department.”
He thanked the outgoing mayor and Council for their support and vowed to “embrace the small town attitude” even as the city grows larger. He also credited those who created the fire district with providing the funds to improve the department.
Repeating their oaths were Chief Allen “Noochie” Credeur, First Assistant Fire Chief Phil Hebert, Second Assistant Fire Chief Toby Credeur, First Captain Michael Cormier (who also served as association secretary and treasurer), Second Captain Joseph “Wa” Credeur (also association president), Lieutenants Jeremy LaBauve and Derek LeBlanc, Association Vice President Eric Menard and Judges Justin Granger, Jake Venable and Trevor Meche.
It was announced Rayne native Neil Arsement of Total Production in Broussard provided the evening’s meal.