YORK, Maine — The FOOLs came to town in an atmosphere of good will and brotherhood Thursday, as an estimated dozen bagpipers wearing kilts and fire

The Fraternal Order of Leatherheads Convention Pipes and Drums play during the opening ceremonies of the FOOLs convention Thursday at Ellis Park in York, Maine. Photo by: Scott Yates/syates@seacoastonline.com

helmets marched across Ocean Avenue to open the annual convention. The opening ceremony was held in Ellis Park, on the grass next to the beach and ocean. The waning sun shone clear and the surf pounded as a moment of silence was held to honor fallen firefighters. The New England FOOLs Bagpipers then played "Amazing Grace."

"We're a family together," said P.J. Johnson, captain with the Kittery Fire Department.

YORK, Maine — On June 27, FOOLS members from all over the country gathered for the last time here to celebrate the end of another outstanding annual Fraternal Order of Leatherheads Society annual convention. Rusty Ricker, President of the New England FOOLS chapter, opened the evening's ceremonies by thanking all those who attended and especially those who worked extra hard putting this convention together. As with all conventions, Founding FOOLS John "Bart" Simpson led the membership gathered together in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by the "Ritual of the Can.”

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