CENTRE HALL — As people and communities all over America recalled the horror of 9/11 and prepared for the 15-year anniversary of the attack, thoughts turned to the fire and rescue workers who serve their communities everyday.
St. Luke Lutheran Church decided to honor their local firefighters with a dinner. On Sunday, Sept. 11, more than 80 first responders, guests and church members came together to pay tribute to those volunteer firefighters.
About one hour before the scheduled dinner, the inevitable happened: The firefighers were called out to cover an accident. As people began to arrive for the event, they were informed of the situation and all said how typical it was: These volunteers miss many family activities, sports events and their own hobbies to serve the community.
When the firefighters finally returned safely, the fellowship and sharing commenced. After prayer by Pastor Becky Horne, the buffet-style meal was enjoyed.
Brian Tice, chief of Centre Hall Fire Company No. 4, spoke of his work and of those who work with him. He introduced his crew, which includes first assistant Junior Orndorf, second assistant Domer Smeltzer, third assistant Barry Fisher and fourth assistant Shawn Meyer. Shawn Myers is safety officer and Forrest Rishel is captain.
“The firemen show up faithfully every Monday for work day and training and they attend a meeting on the second Tuesday of each month,” said Tice.
He stressed that the average firefighter in Centre Hall is in his 40s. They would like to see more volunteers in the younger age groups. “You can join as a junior firefighter at age 16,” he said.
There is also a ladies auxillary in Centre Hall and it can use more volunteers, too. The women help by making sandwiches and coffee to feed the firefighters when they return from their calls. They do fundraising activities, also.
Centre Hall is planning an open house soon, according to the chief. Watch for that and stop by. Learn about the firemen’s new tools for extricating people from wrecks, and about their plans going forward. A new firehouse is planned in a few years as funds become available.
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