First, I failed to share some information with you in my last column. I recently mailed an appeal to every Missouri State Representative and Senator along with the U.S. Representatives and Senators from Missouri. Unfortunately, the response was very limited. I do want to give a special thanks to Senator Doug Libla from Poplar Bluff and House Speaker Tim Jones from Eureka for making donations. Senator Libla sent $343 in memory of 5 LODD firefighters whose names are on the wall at the Memorial. You might call their office and thank them. Also call the others and see if they will make a donation for the Museum Project. Continue Reading →

I apologize for missing last month’s newsletter. I could blame it on old age, but too many use that one. I’ll just confess, I forgot, but I haven’t forgotten the project to build a firefighters’ museum for Missouri firefighters. First, I want to thank individuals and businesses who purchased flags for the Firefighters’ Field of Flags at the memorial in May. While we only sold about 30 flags, we displayed 53. Several people who saw the flags from the interstate stopped in to get a closer look and some who came while I was present asked questions about it. This gave me the opportunity to share your project.

Raffle items on the website, www.missourifirefightersmuseum.org include a print of an oil painting of bible and boots, the print is numbered and autographed by the artist; a picture frame for firefighters, frame yourself or someone else; and a leather helmet shield with “343” on it. Raffle tickets are only $5 each or 3 tickets for $10 and all proceeds go to the museum project. I encourage all of you to purchase at least 1 ticket and to pass the word on to others. Items are pictured with this article.

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The brotherhood of firefighters came together once again because of a line of duty death. Lt. Britt’s tragic death is a reminder that firefighters face different kinds of risks on every call they make. We join with all of you in expressing sympathy to the family and fellow firefighters of Columbia. Our prayers have been and continue to be with all involved. One significant tribute was the presentation of the U.S. Honor Flag. Several individuals were present at the Firefighters’ Memorial as they stopped with the flag. The ceremony was simple and brief, but very meaningful. Other tributes were meaningful as well.

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Happy 2014! My wish for each of our Missouri firefighters is a very happy new year!

1. As I shared with you in the last newsletter, the Fruitland Fire Protection District has donated a 1964 Chevrolet Fire Truck with front mounted pump. Over the harsh winter months, we will keep it in storage, then in the spring place it at the site of the proposed Fire Fighters’ Museum next to the Memorial. It is our hope that this will draw the attention of the many visitors that come to the Memorial and the Tourism Center located adjacent to it. Below is a picture of the truck. Thanks to the Fruitland Fire Fighters! Continue Reading →