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Health of a Community is Measured by its Volunteer Spirit
Dear Editor:
Seven years ago, on a hot summer afternoon, I stopped into Papa John's for pizza and found our Garrison Volunteer Fire Company camped out in the parking lot. They were fighting a persistent brush fire on the ridge opposite the restaurant and had been at it for several days.
I recognized some of the members under the soot and bulky gear. One of them played tennis at the club. One attended our church. Most of them I did not know. But there they were, fighting a threat to our community that most of us did not even know was in our midst, and doing so as volunteers.
These Firefighters were sacrificing their comfort and safety to protect their neighbors largely in anonymity. This "willingness to do for others", I believe, reflects the highest and best nature of a community. I could not help but feel a little embarrassed that I was going home to relax and eat pizza with my family.
A month later, I volunteered to join our local Fire Company. It has been one of the most rewarding commitments of my adult life. We are a diverse talent pool. Some of us work with our hands for a living, some work with our heads. Some are retired, some hold down two or three jobs. All have discovered the unique joy and fellowship that comes through serving others.
The health of a community has always been measured by the strength of its volunteer spirit. The Garrison "all volunteer" Fire Company has been a proud tradition here since 1929. I challenge your readers to consider this call to serve your neighbor. Join us in the Garrison Volunteer Fire Company for the safety and protection of our community.
Jamie Copeland
Membership Committee
Garrison Volunteer Fire Co.
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