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Life at the GFD
Members make Firehouse Magazine
Firefighter Christopher Folster and Past Chief Larry Weikert were recently recognized in Firehouse Magazine as part of the Heroism and Community Service Awards for actions at a building fire on April 9, 2007.
Bicentennial Banquet
March 15, 2008
With Hanover Fire Commissioner James Roth serving as Master of Ceremonies and National Fire Academy Superintendent Dr. Denis Onieal delivering the keynote address, the Gettysburg Fire Department celebrated 200 years at the Wyndham Hotel. Many old memories were recounted throughout the evening, and the following awards were presented:
Eugene S. Sickles Memorial Award: Sandra Waybrant
Fireman of the Year: Robert Demko
President's Award: George M. Gallagher
Chief's Award: Chris Eiker
David Hutchison EMS Award: Robert Kimple
Donald Gantz Training Award: Julie Baldwin
Fire Police Award: Gerald Penor
Additionally, honorary memberships were bestowed upon two close friends of the Gettysburg Fire Department--Dr. Denis Onieal of the National Fire Academy, and Charles Sterner III (posthumously).
Attention Members--Department Training
Attention riding members: the following courses have been set up and do not require preregistration; just show up for the class--if you any questions please contact Training Officer Hiller.
Haz-Mat Operations Refresher
Sat. 3/16 9 am-3 pm @ Bendersville
Sat. 3/22 8 am-2 pm @ Cashtown
Wed. 3/26 6:30-10:30 pm @ Gettysburg
Sat. 4/5 8 am-2 pm @ ACESTF
Wed. 4/23 6:30-11 pm @ Buchanan Valley
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AED/CPR
Wed. 3/19 7 pm @ Gettysburg
Sat. 4/19 10 am @ Gettysburg
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Blood Borne Pathogens
Sat. 4/19 1 pm @ Gettysburg
(more of these courses to be scheduled)
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IS 300 is starting 4/16 @ Cashtown--See Assistant Baldwin for details
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Refresher Ride Test Group Study Sessions
Wed. 3/19 6 pm-8 pm
Wed. 4/2 6 pm-8 pm
Sat. 4/12 10 am-12 pm
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Refresher Ride Testing
Fri. 4/18 5-10 pm
Sat. 4/19 9 am-12 pm
Sat. 4/19 1 pm-5 pm
If you would like to test sooner or schedule a make up time, contact Training Officer Hiller.
Happy 200th Birthday, GFD
February 12, 2008
On February 12, 1808 the organization that is now known as the Gettysburg Fire Department was formed. Over the years the department has seen equipment evolve, occupied nine different firehouses and grown to serve our community over 2700 times a year.
Truck 1 Delivered
January 24, 2008
Just in time for the annual Veteran's Banquet, Truck 1 was delivered to Gettysburg on Thursday, January 24th.
The truck will be remaining in the station for lettering and striping before traveling to Interstate to have the equipment mounted. The truck is expected to go in service in March.
Appointed Positions Announced
January 22, 2008
Effective January 22, the following appointments are in place:
Sergeant(s): TBA, Position being re-evaluated
Engine 1-1 Foreman: Bob Abraham
Quint 1 Foreman: Ed Mizenko
Truck 1 Foreman: Brandon Hiller
Truck 1 Asst. Foreman: John Ferguson
Rescue 1 Foreman: Chris Folster
Rescue 1 Asst. Foreman: Bill McLaughin
Traffic 1 Foreman: Matt Weaver
Service 1 Foreman: Carl Stone
Fire Police Captain: Mark Fruehan
Fire Police 1st Lieutenant: Jerry Penor
Fire Police 2nd Lieutenant: Don Shriner
Training Officer: Brandon Hiller
Training Committee: Steve Hurst, Julie Baldwin, Hurshel Shank, Jason Stiltner
Safety Officer: Gary Frederick
Truck Inspection Photos
January 9, 2008
Fresh off the wire from Clintonville, below are several photos of the new Seagrave ladder truck at final inspection.
The truck will arrive in Gettysburg soon for viewing by the membership before it heads to Interstate for equipment mounting.
2008-09 Officers Elected
Effective January 1st 2008 the officers elected on December 12, 2007 will assume their duties. They are as follows:
Chief: Kenneth Kime, Jr.
Deputy Chief: Al Knerr, Jr.
Assistant Chief: Allen Baldwin
Captain: Wesley Heyser
Lieutenant: Bryan Wasylyk
Trustees:
Erik Bergdale
John Wormley
Richard Shetter
75% Participating Department
December 6, 2007
On Thursday evening the GFD was recognized for attaining 75% participation in the voluntary certification program administered by the Office of the State Fire Commissioner. Commissioner Ed Mann, Congressman Todd Platts, State Senator Terry Punt and numerous other federal, state and local officials attended the event in the department's community room.
The Gettysburg Fire Department is the first organization in Adams County and only the 40th in the commonwealth to reach this certification benchmark.
Fall Film
Check out the latest offering from Mars 888/Rotoray Productions, the Fall Film.
Christmas Parade '07
Members and their families gathered Saturday to decorate a float for the annual Christmas Parade.
As is the tradition in Gettysburg, Santa once again came to town on the decorated fire engine.
Thankgiving at the Firehouse
Members gathered at the firehouse on Thanksgiving day for a variety of delicious foods, including a fried turkey.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Truck 1 Coming Right Along
Truck 1 is coming right along at the Seagrave factory in Clintonville, Wisconsin. Delivery is expected in January, 2008.
Driver/Operator Training
November 12, 2007
Several members took advantage of the weather and Veteran's Day Holiday to to take the engine and quint to the training center to pump. Firefighters Abraham and Dempsey operated Engine 1-1, which they are in the process of getting released on.
DEL-MAR Series/SBS Burn
November 3, 2007
Members completing their interior firefighter course and those enrolled in a county-run structural burn session traveled to HACC November 3rd to participate in live fire exercises.
Congratulations to Julie Baldwin and Carl Stone, who completed their interior class at the burn.
Company Level Burn
October 28, 2007
On Sunday several members traveled to the Franklin County Training Facility for a company level burn.
Members from Fairfield, the McKinley Street Station and several other companies also participated in the burn.
A big thanks to Engine/Tanker 14 from McKinley Street for serving as our water supply piece and Franklin Air 10 for serving as the cascade.
(These Photos Courtesy of McKinley Street)
GFD Returns to Run Survey
For the fourth year the Gettysburg Fire Department appeared in firehouse magazine's annual volunteer run survey.
The department ran a total of 2,647 incidents in 2006.
Fire Prevention Week
The GFD recently marked fire prevention week with an open house and several visits to local schools.
As part of this year's activities, a coloring contest was conducting. The winners recieved a ride to school on a Gettysburg fire engine.
Buchanan Valley LODD Funeral
October 9, 2007
On October 9th, Adam Cole, who died as the result of injuries sustained from a vehicle accident while responding to a call on October 4th was laid to rest in St. Ignatius Cemetery.
Several GFD members attended the proceedings.
(Photos Courtesy of Curtis Bryan, DCFD Ladder 4)
National Fallen Firefigher's Memorial
October 7, 2007
Gettysburg members once again attended the National Fallen Firefighter's Memorial Weekend in Emmitsburg, Maryland.
A Gettysburg ladder truck was also again used to drape a large American flag; with the seagrave out of service and sold, this year Quint 1 was given the honor.
High School Bonfire
October 6, 2007
On Thursday Engine 1-1, the duty ride and 1A stood by for a bonfire at the High School. When the bonfire was finished a small line was pulled to extinguish the remaining embers.
Current GFD Bylaws and House Rules
GFD Golf Team Wins Tournment
The Gettysburg Fire Department Golf Team recently took home the trophy from the Adams County Convention Golf Tournament for the lowest score.
Members of the team included John Lawver, Neal Garvick, Eric Bergdale, & Danny Hillard. Great job guys!!!!
(This photo courtesy of ACVESA.org)
Bike Week Returns to Gettysburg
July 13, 2007 through July 15, 2007
Bike week once again returned to Gettysburg this past weekend. Gettysburg Volunteers established a rotating schedule for stand by crews due to the increase in traffic in town.
Units were kept busy with 49 incidents with in the 48 hour period of the stand by.
The GFD had an average of 16 people on station throughout the weekend & total man hours on calls of 104 hours & 2 minutes!!
Thanks to all that made this weekend run smooth!!!
Carnival '07
The 2007 Carnival was once again a great success for the department, featuring a variety of rides, games, and of course great food.
We look forward to seeing everyone again next year!
Driver/Operator Certification Testing
April 21, 2007
Several members, along with firefighters from area departments took part in National Pro-Board Driver/Operator Pumper and Aerial certification testing held at the Gettysburg Fire Department by Bucks County Community College.
Captain Baldwin set up the testing opportunity, which included a written exam and several skill stations.
Thanks to all of the participating companies who brought apparatus for the testing, Waynesboro for providing a transfer crew and Bonneauville for letting us borrow their port-a-pond for drafting.
Of course, after a long day of testing, everyone needs a nap...
Two Gettysburg Volunteers Promoted Down South
Congratulations to firefighters Bryan Wasylyk and Bill Dempsey who were both recently promoted at their career positions in Anne Arundel County, Maryland.
Wasylyk was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant and Dempsey has been promoted to Firefighter III (Pumper Operator).
NFA Executive Analysis of Fire Service Operations in Emergency Management
(EFO Part 3 or 4)
Captain Baldwin recently completed the third course in the four part masters level Executive Fire Officer program from the National Fire Academy. The two week course focused on executive analysis of fire service operations in emergency management.
The entire class is pictured above at the National Fire Academy.
Captain Baldwin Certified as Fire Officer IV
Captain Baldwin recently recieved his Fire Officer IV certification after many months of hard work. Congratulations Allen!
Chef/Driver Hoffman At Your Service
February 12, 2007
While helping prepare lunch at the station for crews, Sergeant Hoffman is always sure to wear the proper equipment, including an apron and his "lucky driving boots".
Before lunch could be served the station emptied to run a working fire...but don't worry, the boys got to the chili later in the afternoon.
Firefighter I Held
February 10, 2007
Saturday was the practical portion of the Firefighter I exam held at the Gettysburg Fire Department by Bucks County Community College.
Firefighter Chris Folster, Firefighter/EMT Robert Kimple, Firefighter/Medic Luke Marlowe and Lieutenant George Gallagher completed the exam, along with several members from Arendtsville, Biglerville and Bendersville.
GFD 16th Round FEMA Recipients
February 9, 2007
Today public notification was made that the Gettysburg Fire Department has recieved $117,831 in the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program for operations and safety.
Annual Awards Banquet Held
January 20, 2007
The annual awards banquet was held at the Gettysburg Fire Department on Saturday January 20th with State Fire Commissioner Ed Mann as the guest speaker. A fine meal was served and the following awards were presented:
Eugene S. Sickles Memorial Award: Regina Heyser
Fireman of the Year: Wesley K. Heyser
President's Award: Erik Bergdale
Chief's Award: Ed Mizenko
David Hutchison EMS Award: Robert Demko
Donald Gantz Training Award: Jason Stiltner
Fire Police Award: Don Shriner
Additionally, the following personnel were recognized for their responses during 2006:
| Top Ten Fire/Rescue 2006 |
| 1. Gary Frederick: 230 |
| 2. Wesley Heyser: 217 |
| 3. Matt Bacon: 212 |
| 4. Francis Dutrow: 198 |
| 5. Hurshel Shank: 169 |
| 6. Nelson Dyer: 163 |
| 7. Bob Abraham: 162 |
| 8. Pat Knierman: 156 |
| 9. Bob Demko: 151 |
| 10. Brandon Hiller: 150 |
| Top Five Fire Police 2006 |
| 1. Don Shriner: 168 |
| 2. Jon Hoch: 137 |
| 3. Mark Fruehan: 115 |
| 4. Gerald Penor: 110 |
| 5. James Rudisill: 64 |
A Nice Big Old Fashioned Dinner
January 13, 2007
Several firefighers and family members took advantage of Saturday evening to sit together for a nice meal at the firehouse and work on some of the rigs.
'77 Seagrave Makes Last Run
The 1977 Seagrave rearmount that has spent 30 years as Truck 1 has been placed permenantly out of service due to hydraulic issues.
For old times sake the boys took the truck for a final run down memory lane, stopping at the Gettysburg Hotel (destroyed by fire in '83) and the Pub (destroyed by fire in '01).
The truck then visited a brother who also recently answered the last alarm and stopped by Father Corby's monument on the battlefield for a final blessing.
Thanks to FF Stiltner for the video available below.
'77 Last Run
New Truck 1 Ordered
January 10, 2007
During the January meeting the department voted to purchase a 2007 Seagrave 100' rearmount ladder truck with a 500 pound tip load and prepiped waterway which reflects traditional truck company functions.
The truck will feature 190 feet of ground ladders (unmatched in the region), a six man stainless steel Marauder I cab, stainless steel fire body, 2006 compliant Series 60 Detroit Deisel and extensive compartmentation to accomodate the impressive amount of tools and equipment which will be carried on the new truck.
The truck's 30 Kw hydraulic generator will support approximately 15 Kw of mounted scene lighting and four 200' cord reels with junction boxes. The ground ladder compliment will include (2) 2-section 35' extension ladders, (1) 2-section 28' extension ladder, (1) 20' roof ladder, (3) 16' roof ladders, (1) 14' little giant combination ladder and (1) 10' attic ladder. The warning package will include a Powercall siren, Federal Q2B, dual Mars 888 lights and a rotoray.
The 2007 Seagrave replaces a 1977 Seagrave and is expected to be in service by the end of 2007.
New Years 2007
As usual, apparatus was on the square for the New Years celebration which welcomed 2007.
Assisted by E/T 27, Gettysburg crews kept watch over the fireworks display which helped the borough welcome the new year.
Thanks Milt...
Over the last few years Milt of K & C Communications has helped us out of several problems that we have had with our radios from time to time. He will be leaving K & C to manage M and D Tech Services.
We wanted to take the time and thank Milt for all of his hard work.
Juniors and Advisor Complete Intro. & NIMS
December 28 & 29, 2006
Several of our junior firefighters and Advisor Julie Baldwin completed both the Introduction to the Fire Service and NIMS in the last days of 2006.
A special thanks to instructors Allen Baldwin and Jason Stiltner for making these classes possible.
Truck 1 County Tour
During recent driver's training, Truck 1 took a tour of parts of the county, and stopped in at least one station.
The truck was backed in the bay just to make sure...it fits in at the house of "Neighbors Helping Neighbors".
Christmas Dinner
December 25, 2006
Once again, several of the GFD family spent the holidays together with a Christmas Dinner at the station. Chefs Demko and Baldwin were at it again, preparing a delicious meal with other members; a special thanks goes out to Deliso Pizza for bringing our crews hot fresh pasta on Christmas day.
December 5, 2006
Area emergency service agencies, including the Gettysburg Fire Department assisted with the wake and funeral of active Firefighter and Vice President Don Gantz, who died on December 1st around 0400 hours.
The viewing and funeral were held on December 4th and 5th, respectively, with the viewing at Monahan Funeral Home and the service at the Gettysburg College Chapel. Internment was at the Evergreen Cemetery.
Donnie was a member of the Barlow Fire Fire Company, where he had served as Chief from 1990-1995 and was recognized as the Firefighter of the Year in 2003. At the Gettysburg Fire Department he was serving a two year term as Vice President and was running unopposed for a second two year term. He was the GFD Fireman of the Year in 1998. He also found time to volunteer at Fairfield Fire and EMS, where he drove the ambulance often on Friday nights.
As an instructor Donnie was active with the Adams County Volunteer Emergency Services Association in addition to various training activities in the companies he belonged to. A contractor by trade, he often made training props from a little bit of nothing and turned an old garage behind the Gettysburg Fire Department into a training center complete with mazes, a small simulated apartment, roof simulators and more. Don regularly attended training courses (or was teaching them), held several certifications and had recently become a state level instructor to compliment all of the work he did locally.
An active fireman at the time of his death, Don had been recongnized by the Eastern Division of the International Association of Fire Chiefs with a medal of valor for a water rescue that he performed in Gettysburg with other firefighters during an area flood in 1996.
Welcoming Santa
November 25, 2006
The volunteers from Gettysburg were happy to once again help welcome Santa to town during the annual Christmas Parade.
Santa made the journey aboard the 1980 Mack as some members and their children rode aboard Sergeant Hoffman and Captain Baldwin's decorated 1969 wagon.
Thanksgiving at the GFD
November 23, 2006
Several members shared Thanksgiving with their fire department family at the station, enjoying a full dinner including fried turkey.
Among those in attendance was college crew alumnus and current law student Jon Cesolini, who "came home" for the week to spend time with all of us here in the 'burg.
He found the driver's seat waiting and took in several runs during his stay.
Trick or Treat
October 31, 2006
As is the custom at the Gettysburg Fire Department, Holloween found the apparatus and crews going out to various neighborhoods to provide lighting, help children cross streets safely and hand out candy.
Operation Starchild, as the activity is known, was again led by Fire Police Captain Fruehan, who has been doing so for several years.
Night Burn at HACC
October 26, 2006
Several members traveled north to Harrisburg on a Thursday evening for a company burn drill at HACC's Public Safety Center.
GFD personnel completed a total of twelve burns, plus two fire growth burns. Teams rotated between fire attack, backup, RIT and rehab, returning to Gettysburg by 2300 hours.
A Comrade Pays A Visit
October 24, 2006
Brother Mike Marrinan (Lieutenant, U.S. Army) found time on his way between posts to spend some time with his friends at the GFD. He also found the 1980 Mack reserve engine in front line service, and soon was behind the wheel on a transfer to Aspers during a building fire in the 9-7 box.
Best of luck Mike, stop back again soon.
Soda 1 Returns to Full Service
October 24, 2006
After a few days with a broken compressor and thus warm soda and juice from the machine, the GFD day room soda machine has returned to fully functional active duty.
Members can once again help themselves to any number of sodas or try their luck with the "variety juices".
Pennsylvania State Convention
September 29-30, 2006
The Pennsylvania State Fireman's Association annual convention was held this year in Conshohocken and attended by several department members.
Gettysburg member Sandra K. "Sandy" Waybrant (in above photo, seated, third from left) will be serving as the association's president for 2007. She is the first female president in the association's history.
She rode in the parade on Saturday in the department's duty vehicle.
Quint 1 was also in the parade. The PSFA convention will held in Gettysburg in 2008.
Bad Boys, Bad Boys...
September 19, 2006
The unit block of North Stratton Street in front of the station became quite the place of activity shortly after 1156 hours on Tuesday, when a subject reportedly robbed the Community National Bank at 29 North Washington Street. The suspect was described as a 6'2" white male with a thin build, wearing a blue nylon jacket, tan dockers and white sneakers who had displayed a black semi-automatic style handgun.
The State Police and local authorities were out in force and checked the area for the suspect.
Firefighter from Poland Visits GFD
Joanna Kiec, a firefighter from Kielce, Poland, recently stopped by the station to see what Gettysburg is like. She is participating in the 2006 USA Student Exchange Program with In-Firenet and being hosted by the Hanover Fire Department. As usual, the members were quick to make the international visitor feel at home.
Pictured during the visit are (from left to right): Retired Chief Warren Peters of the Prince George's County Fire Department, Firefighter Brandon Hiller of the GFD, Chief Larry Weikert of the GFD, Joanna Kiec, Retired Baltimore City Chief & GFD Safety Officer Gary Frederick and Hanover Fire Commissioner James Roth.
Five Years Later
September 11, 2006
Several members of the Gettysburg Fire Department traveled to New York City for the fifth anniversary of the events of September 11th. There they met up with some friends from the FDNY, including Tom "Skippy" Winship of Ladder 55 (Bronx), Jarod Blake of Ladder 19 (Bronx) and Andrew Getka of Ladder 23 (Manhatten).
While some members commemorated the sorrowful day in New York, others attended a candlelight service for the community held at Pennsylvania Hall on the Gettysburg College Campus.
Welsh Firemen's Bike Tour
September 2-4, 2006
The Gettysburg Fire Department recently hosted a group of firemen from Whales who are bicycling across the region to recognize the fifth anniversary of the 9/11 attacks which claimed so many lives. They began their journey in Philadelphia and traveled to Baltimore, Maryland and Washington, D.C.
They made a layover in Gettysburg before traveling on to Shanksville and the Flight 93 crash site. They will then retrace their route and proceed on to New York City, where they will spend September 11th.
During their stay the international affairs liasons from the GFD showed them the battlefield, took them out on the town, took them to a fireworks show and generally tried to make them feel at home. The firemen are part of the South Wales Fire and Rescue Service and presented the Gettysburg Fire Department with a helmet and axe from their home country.
Fire Protection for the Feds
August 29, 2006
At 1928 hours Engine 1-1, Rescue 1, Service 1 and the Chief (Weikert) staffed with twelve proceeded to the Gettysburg Airport at the request of the Department of Defense.
Gettysburg volunteers provided fire protection for military aircraft which were using the airfield; the details are classified. Units returned to service without incident at 2022 hours.
"Duty Luke" now a Medic
August 5, 2006
After a great deal of hard work "Duty" Luke Marlowe graduated from the Pennsylvania College of Technology with an associate's degree in applied science.
In addition to his degree Luke is now also a National Registry certified paramedic. Congratulations Luke!
2nd Place in Softball
July 29, 2006
Gettysburg once again fielded a team for the annual Adams County softball tournament. After playing seven gruelling games the team managed to finish second to the crew from Emmittsburg, Maryland in the double elimination tournament.
Mutual Aid Picnic
July 26, 2006
Once again the GFD held its annual mutual aid picnic to the rear of the station, with several fire companies, police officers and medics in attendance.
Chef Weasel & company served a fine selection of hotdogs, hamburgers and sides. We hope to see everyone again next year!
Happy Birthday Mikey-July 11, 2006
The family here at the Gettysburg Fire Department would like to send birthday wishes out to firefighter Mike Marrinan, who is currently stationed in Washington State with the United States Army.
Firefighter Marrinan is a 2006 graduate of Gettysburg College; while attending he participated in ROTC at Dickinson College and was commissioned this past May.
Back in Firehouse Magazine-July 2006
The Gettysburg Fire Department is once again being featured in Firehouse Magazine.
This month Rescue 1 and Quint 1 are featured in the parting shot at the Devil's Den on Gettysburg National Military Park. Be sure to pick up your issue and check it out today!
Spotted Visitors-June 12, 2006
The Gettysburg Fire Department was visited today by two dalmatians, Nala and Nick, who were visiting the area with their owners.
The two dogs and their owners have made it a habit to visit the local fire stations in areas they visit, and were happy to pose for a photograph by the bell.
1-1 "Gettysburg" Lettering Donated
June 7, 2006
Today Engine 1-1 got a bit of a finishing touch courtesy of Butch Eyler of Eyler Signs. The new engine now features "Gettysburg" across the front, just like the other apparatus in the fleet.
The "Gettysburg" lettering on Engine 1-1 was donated by Eyler Signs, and we would like to offer our thanks and appriciation for this donation to the department.
Now Protecting a Battlefield Near You
June 3, 2006
At 0900 hours on June 3, 2006 the Gettysburg Fire Department placed in service Engine 1-1, a 2006 Sutphen with a 1500 GPM pump and 750 gallon booster tank.
Engine 1-1 features 750 feet of 1-3/4", 650 feet of 2-1/2" and 1500 feet of 5" supply line, as well as a full compliment of engine company equipment. The warning package features a Federal Q2B, powercall, LED lighting and roto-ray.Full size image of 1-1 at the PA Monument
Keeping Up International Relations
May 6, 2006
The boys at the GFD were visited today by a ride-along from Budapest, Hungary. Colonel Ozkar Cziva, the Chief of Department for the Budapest Fire Brigade stopped in at the station to see how firefighting is done in America. Colonel Cziva is in the U.S. attending classes at the National Fire Academy.
While he was with us Ozkar caught two back to back runs, a brush fire and a Box Alarm at the Adams Country Prison.
GFD Takes Delivery of Engine 1-1
May 4, 2006
On Thursday around noon the Gettysburg Fire Department took delivery of its newest addition to the fleet, Engine 1-1. The engine still needs to have radios installed, tools mounted and make a trip to the Fire Expo in Harrisburg prior to permanently returning to Gettysburg. After driver-operator training is completed, Engine 1-1 will placed in service, tentatively on June 3, 2006.
Engine 1-1 Clip
In related news, the final round of raffle tickets to support the roto-ray are currently for sale. Members should see Tracey Brown or Wes Heyser for tickets. The raffle will be based upon the daily number on June 3rd, when the engine is scheduled to be placed in service.
Engine 1-1 Makes FDIC Appearance
Prior to delivery to the Gettysburg Fire Department, Engine 1-1 made an appearance at FDIC in Indianapolis during the last week of April.
(Photograph courtesy 2nd Asst. Chief Robert Sells, Shiloh Fire Company, West Manchester Township Fire Department)
GFD Recruits New Student Volunteers
April 22, 2006
As in past years the Gettysburg Fire Department was well represented at Gettysburg College's Get Acquainted Day, where GFD members showed the Class of 2010 what being a student volunteer is all about.
Quint 1 and 1A1 were staffed for the event with nine. The GFD display included flying the stick into the college's field house, a slide show, equipment demonstrations and flyers for prospective Gettysburg students. Seven current student volunteer firefighters and EMTs were on hand to explain how the department operates and how new students can become involved. Four student volunteers with the Gettysburg Fire Department will be graduating from Gettysburg College this May: FF Cesolini, FF Marrinan, FF Wyss and EMT Foose.
Captain Baldwin Completes Second of Four Executive Fire Officer Courses-April 14, 2006
Captain Allen Baldwin graduated today from the Leading Community Risk Reduction class of the National Fire Academy Executive Fire Officer Program.
The completion of this course marks the half-way point for Captain Baldwin in his track to complete this masters level program. Allen is pictured with Dr. O'Neil and Kirby Kieefer of the NFA.
Engine 1-1 Nears Completion
Engine 1-1, which is being built by the Sutphen Corporation, is rapidly nearing completion.
The tentative timetable for Engine 1-1 is as follows:
Last Week of April: Display at FDIC in Indianapolis
First Week of May: Delivery to Gettysburg
May 8 & 9: Radio installation
May 10-13: Tool mounting by Moul Enterprises
May 14-17: Driver/Operator training-schedule to be posted
May 19-21: Display at Harrisburg Fire Expo
May 21-June 3: Additional Driver/Operator training
June 3, 2006: Place Engine 1-1 in service
ATTENTION ALL MEMBERS--NEW SCBA
The new Scott Airpak NxG2 SCBA have arrived and been placed in service. Training was held this past week on the new SCBA. Any members who did not make the training sessions need to recieve training on the new SCBA before using them on any incidents.
Additional training sessions will be forthcoming and posted at the station, as well as on this site.
Carnival to be 1 Week "Early"
Several months ago, the GFD rescheduled its carnival. The carnival will be taking place Tuesday, June 27 through Saturday, July 1. This move was necessary for logistical reasons.
Boys Return from Across the Pond
While two of the members spent some time in merry old England they stopped in to see how the Brits in London run the fire service there.
Besides a few photos and some interesting stories, they also brought us back two run clips:
London Run Clip 1 London Run Clip 2
GFD places new table in service
With an ever increasing number of members hanging about the station, particularly at mealtimes, the department welcomed a new, custom made table to the day room recently. The table features the GFD seal in the middle, and is quite the sight to be seen.
Thank you to the craftsmen at the Hoffman household who made this new table a reality.
GFD Appriciation Banquet
January 21, 2006
The Gettysburg Fire Department held its annual Appriciation Banquet on Saturday January 21, 2006. The banquet included the swearing in of the new line officers and trustees as well as several awards.
The 2006-07 line officers and trustees are sworn in by Mayor Troxell (at left); Chief's Award recipient Mark Fruehan with 2004-05 Chief Al Knerr (at right).
Training Award recipient Becky Codori (at left) and Fire Police Award recipient Dan Smith (at right), both with 2004-05 Chief Al Knerr.
Firefighter of the Year Allen Baldwin with 2004-05 Chief Al Knerr (at left) and Eugene Sickles Award recipient John Wormley with President Tim Braband (at right).
A big thanks to the Buchanan Valley Fire Department for staffing our apparatus during the banquet.
What's That? An Air Compressor!
January 19, 2006
The Scott air compressor that is part of our Fire Act grant has arrived and is being prepared for installation.
The GFD property committee will be working hard in the coming days to make final adjustments to the station in order to accommodate the new equipment.
2006-07 Line Officers Elected
Effective January 1st 2006 the line officers elected on December 14, 2005 will assume their duties. They are as follows:
Chief: Larry E. Weikert
Deputy Chief: Kenneth Kime, Jr.
Assistant Chief: Christopher Eiker
Captain: Allen Baldwin
Lieutenant: George M. Gallagher
Also elected to two year terms were three trustees:
Erik Bergdale
John Wormley
Richard Shetter
New Activation Tone for House Siren
The old siren activation tone as we all know and have memorized will be changing.
It will now have a two-tone sound like Buchanan Valley and SAVES, instead of
the four-tone sound activation. The change was brought on by needed repairs to
the Siren and an upgrade to the electronics.
Gettysburg Units in PA Fireman
December, 2005
Gettysburg units recently participated in a photo shoot that dealt with safety while operating on highway incidents and motor vehicle accidents in general. Rescue 1, Traffic 1 and an ambulance participated in the shoot, along with the Gettysburg Borough Police.
All departmental apparatus are equipped with safety vests for every riding position to improve visibility on these types of incidents. Additionally, Traffic 1 was recently acquired and outfitted by the department's fire police; it is equipped with many safety items and serves as a great asset.
Gettysburg Welcomes Santa
Novembeer 25, 2005
As is the local tradition, Santa once again made his annual trip to Gettysburg's Lincoln Square via fire engine.
Atop not a sleigh, but rather Engine 1-3 Santa rode down York Street to his shack, where a long line of children were already waiting.
LEAP
Fall 2005
Once again, Gettysburg members volunteered their time to help out with the Lincoln Elementary Afterschool Program. Students went through the maze, learned how the Hurst equipment works (a bad day for soda cans), saw demonstrations and got extinguish a small fire with a water can.
A big thanks to FF Knierman, who headed up the program, as well as his many assistants!
SCBA Fit Testing Complete
November 14 & 15, 2005
Mid-Atlantic Fire & Air conducted fit testing for the new NxG2 SCBA on the evenings of November 14th and 15th. The operation of the new SCBA was also reviewed with each member. All SCBA qualified personnel need to review the new units with a member of the SCBA committee prior to use.
Big Pete Graduates
Novembeer 10, 2005
Gettysburg volunteers traveled to the metropolitan area to celebrate another member graduating a career fire academy. Firefighter/Probationer Pete Corbino graduated from the 22 long week Arlington County Fire Training Academy. Pete entered the Academy shortly after graduating from Gettysburg College, which he attended for four years while actively fighting fire with the GFD.
Pete has been assigned to Engine Company # 105 in Crystal City. Good luck and best wishes Pete!
Attention All Personnel
EMS Tone Change
-Effective November 1, 2005, a new EMS tone will be utilized to alert the career staff for EMS calls. The old ambulance tone will be used to alert volunteers for the 2nd ambulance.
-In order for communications to make this work, the 1st out ambulance (career staffed) is and always will be known as Ambulance 1A
-The 2nd out ambulance (volunteer staffed) is and always will be known as Ambulance 1A1.
-Patient care reports will be entered according to the unit you are physically operating in regardless of the designation communications is utilizing.
-Any questions should be directed to a line officer.
Firehouse Magazine
Annual Volunteer Run Survey
Be sure to check out the latest Firehouse Magazine for Gettysburg's participation in the annual volunteer run survey. In 2004 the GFD ran 2465 total alarms, 535 Fire/Rescue and 1930 Emergency Medical Services.
Operation Starchild (Trick or Treat)
October 31, 2005
Once again the department participated in local trick or treat activities by handing out candy, providing lighting and helping children cross the streets safetly. This effort, called Operation Startchild, was once again sprearheaded by Fire Police Captain Fruehan.
Participating apparatus included Quint 1, Truck 1, Rescue 1, Engine 1-3, Traffic 1, 1A and 1A1.
Prison Forcible Entry Training
October 10 & 11, 2005
The department ventured to the former Adams County Prison for drill on Monday and Tuesday, forcing several doors, cutting through cell bars and practicing other entry skills.
The former prison is being demolished with a new historical society building due to be erected on the site.
New SCBA & Compressor Purchased
The department will be replacing our old SCBA with Scott NxG2 units with 45 minute carbon-wrapped cylinders, AV-3000 facepieces and dual EBSS.
In addition, the department is purchasing a RIT pack with a 60 minute cylinder and a new 15 horsepower Hush air compressor, featuring four 6000 psi ASME cylinders and a two in, two out fill station.
Additions to Fleet
The GFD recently made two additions to its fleet, a duty officer's vehicle and a traffic unit for the fire police.
The duty officer's vehicle is a 2006 Ford Expedition; the unit will be equipped with all of the capabilities necessary to establish an efficient command center. The traffic unit is the former Squad 22 of Barlow Fire Company and is equipped to address the needs of our fire police, particularily on larger or extended highway incidents.
Attention Members
Attached is a letter from Erik Bergdale, the Carnival Chairman.
Annual Fireman's Carnival
June 28th-July 2nd
The department's annual carnival at the Gettysburg Recreation Park was once again a success! The carnival featured a variety of rides, games, and of course great food. See you there again next year.
SCBA DEMOS COMPLETED
  
DEMOS by Survivair, MSA and Scott were recently held at the GFD, and loaner units are being returned. A survey will be posted at the station for members to complete in regards to the SCBAs.
GOLF 500-May 14, 2005
The department's annual Golf 500 was held on May 14th, and was once again a big success!! Thanks to all who helped with the event in any way, and thanks to all who bought those tickets.
New Engine Purchased-May 11, 2005
During the department meeting on May 11th the membership voted to purchase a new engine from Sutphen. The new unit will feature a 1500 GPM Hale QMax pump, 185" wheelbase, 30' Overall length, 750 gallons of water, 8kw hydraulic Onan generator, Cummins ISL 400 HP, Jacobs, Allison EVS transmission and capacity for 1500' of 5".
Flashover Simulator-April 10, 2005
GFD members traveled south to Anne Arundel County Maryland to experience their flashover simulator. Following a morning of flashovers the crew spent the early afternoon doing live fire evolutions in one of Anne Arundel's burn buildings.
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A big thank you to the Lt. Young and the other instructors from Anne Arundel County.
Rescue Tools-March 29, 2005
A representative from Specialty Rescue, the department's Hurst dealer was at the firehouse Tuesday evening. The department membership reviewed two different cutters; one of them will be used to replace the current X-tractor cutters carried on Rescue 1.
Members cut an auto apart behind the station, evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of each tool. The new cutter will be purchased in the near future.
GFD Banquet-March 12, 2005
The Gettysburg Fire Department celebrated the year with its annual, if a bit delayed banquet. The event was originally scheduled for January 22nd but postponed due to snow.
Awards for the evening included President's Award recipient Gary Mauston, Chief's Award recipient Allen Baldwin, Firefighter of the Year Mark Fruehan and Eugene Sickles Award recipient Roger Heyser. Awards were also distributed to the department's top responders. A big thank you to Biglerville for covering our area with Engine 6-2 until 0600 hours Sunday morning.
IKE: A Final Farewell
Recently Gettysburg bade a final farewell to Engine 1-1, "General Ike", which was named for Dwight D. Eisenhower.
"Ike" was a 1957 B Model Mack which served the department into the 1990s. Originally painted red, "Ike" was repainted slime when Gettysburg's color scheme changed in the late 1970s. The engine was sold to a private individual.
Fire Act Grant-February 25, 2005
Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff today announced 347 grants to fire departments throughout the United States in the thirty sixth round, including $160,218 to the Gettysburg Fire Department for operations and firefighter safety. The Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program is administered by the Homeland Security Department's Office for Domestic Preparedness in cooperation with the Department's United States Fire Administration.
Veteran Fireman's Association Banquet
The Banquet was held for the 67th anniversary of the Veteran Fireman's Association on January 27, 2005. New
50 year members that were recognized were Charles E. Kranias (04/1954), Martin L. Crabill (07/1954), and Joseph O. Sanders (12/1954). New 15 year members of
the department that were welcomed into the association were John Heller, Kenneth Kime, Matthew Riegel, Thomas Young,
Robert Then, and John Snyder.
BANQUET RESCHEDULED
The banquet has been rescheduled for March 12, 2005. Members that had planned to attend previously should confirm on the signup sheet at the station and members who had not previously signed up are invited to do so.
Blitzfire Mounted-January 27, 2005
On Thursday some of our in-house craftsmen facilited the mounting of the blitzfire.
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The bliztfire is now preconnected to 200' of 2-1/2" and mounted on the rear of Rescue 1. The blitzfire serves as the masterstream device for Rescue 1, which also has full engine capabilities.
Department Surveys
Members are reminded that the department operations surveys are due by the morning of January 25th to the Captain's mailbox.
LEAP-Autumn 2004
In recent weeks Gettysburg volunteers have been leading a firefighting afterschool program for local fourth and fifth graders as part of LEAP (Lincoln Elementary Afterschool Program).
During the final session participants extinguished a small fire with a pressurized water fire extinguisher.
Flag Pole Repairs-October 19, 2004
Gettysburg volunteers took some time to help out the local Wendy's and repair their flag pole rope.
Fallen Firefighters Service-October 10, 2004
On Sunday morning Truck 1 participated in the annual Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service at the National Fire Academy in Emmittsburg, Maryland.
Rescue Strut Training-August 25, 2004
GFD members spent the evening training on the new struts carried on Rescue 1.
A representative from the manufacturer, Junkyard Dog Industries was on hand to explain the uses and limitations of the struts; they will be used for stabilization on vehicle accidents.
Engine 1-3 Transfers to The Wrightsville Steam Fire Engine & Hose Co. No. 1
Engine 1-3 transferred to Wrightsville, York County on Friday, August 27th, 2004 and will remain at their station
until September 6,2004. Engine 1-3 will serve as Wrightsville's 1st due engine during that timeframe, as repair work
is being done to their engine.
Rescue 1 Placed in Service-August 18, 2004
After several months of hard work, the New Rescue 1 was placed into service at 18:00 hrs. Thanks
to the committee, all who have contributed in any way to making the Rescue a reality.
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