ROCKPORT – The Rockport Fire Department will be showcasing their culinary talents at a benefit spaghetti dinner and auction they are sponsoring Saturday, Oct. 17, to support one of their fellow firefighters who has been recently diagnosed with colorectal cancer.

Lt. David Leighton has been undergoing radiation and chemotherapy treatments the past six weeks and will undergo surgery this November.

“Leighton is a self-employed business owner and expects to be out of work for about four months after his surgery and the department really wants to help the family with their medical expenses and other financial needs,” said Fire Chief Jason Peasley. “This event will give everyone an opportunity to support a firefighter who has always been there for the community the past 28 years.”

Leighton joined the fire department in 1987 while he was in high school. His father, Gary, served as assistant and deputy chief from 1982-1990. Firefighting continues to be a passion with the Leighton family and the third generation now includes Leighton’s son, Tyler, also a Rockport firefighter and his daughter, Samantha, who joined the department this summer as a junior firefighter.

The benefit spaghetti dinner will be held at the Rockport Fire Station and is scheduled from 5 to 7 p.m. The live and silent auctions will run from 7 to 8 p.m. Donations for the dinner are requested at $5 for children, $10 for adults and $25 for a family. Dinner includes spaghetti and meatballs, salad, bread, dessert, and a beverage.

Peasley said there are many ways the community can support this event.

“We are hoping that individuals, businesses and organizations will donate items for both the live and silent auctions,” he said. “Volunteers are also needed to help with set-up and serving dinners and contributions of baked goods will be gratefully accepted for the dessert portion of the meal.”

Monetary donations and auction items can be dropped off at the fire station, adjacent to the town office, or by mail to the Rockport Fire Department, PO Box 142, Rockport, ME 04856. Peasley can be reached at the Rockport Fire Department at 236-4437 or by email at firechief@town.rockport.me.us.

Sarah Shepherd can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com