Forged By Fire: Honoring Our Heritage

Many in our ranks don’t realize how the fire service has evolved. Mention Hackensack, Keokuk, Waldbaums, or Adams Avenue, and you’ll often get blank stares. It’s crucial to revisit our roots
and preserve the valuable lessons of our history. Sharing these stories educates the next generation and honors those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Too often, amid routine calls, daily politics, and firehouse gossip, we forget we’re part of something extraordinary — the great American Fire Service, rich in tradition, heritage, honor, and sacrifice.

As FDNY Chief Vincent Dunn wisely noted, “THERE ARE NO NEW LESSONS TO BE LEARNED FROM A FIREFIGHTER’S DEATH OR INJURY. THE CAUSE OF A TRAGEDY IS USUALLY AN OLD LESSON WE HAVE NOT LEARNED FROM OR HAVE FORGOTTEN.”

On Tue., Nov. 12, from 7-10 p.m., join us at Clarence Fire District No. 1 for an engaging presentation by Tom Merrill, a 40-year veteran of the Snyder Fire Department. Tom will highlight essential lessons, traditions, and sacrifices to ensure they are not lost to time.