Wisconsin Rapids Lodge No. 128 held a Firefighter appreciation event on October 6 2022, for all of the local area Fire Departments. The Departments from Wisconsin Rapids, Grand Rapids, Nekoosa, Rudolf, Vesper, and Village of Biron attended.
The Village of Port Edwards was unable to attend. The event began with social time where all of the Fire Chiefs were able to connect with each other as they seldom have a chance to do. Ten Masons attended to express our appreciation to the departments for all they do for the communities preserving life and property. A presentation was given about what the Masonic Fraternity is all about and its impact to the community and around the country.
The Wisconsin Masonic Foundation Acts of Kindness program was also explained. Seven FST units were presented to the departments with videos shown on the impact of these units and how to use them with our hope that they help save lives of residents, Firefighters, pets, and property. With insurance companies opting to replace the FST units it is hoped that these will be perpetual gifts to our communities.
Fire Departments receive their Fire Suppression Tools. Front row from left: Vesper Chief Dennis Dederich, Rudolf Chief Tony Konkol, Nekoosa Chief Mike Hartie, Grand Rapids Captain Mike Ski, Village of Biron Chief David Kerkman, Wisconsin Rapids Division Fire Chief (EMS) Justin Pluess, and Village of Biron Assistant Shawn Dillingham. Back row: Master Justin Herman, Secretary Chris Peters, Joe Myren, Chaplain Ron Herman, Past Grand Master John W. Hein, District Representative Duane Monville, Trustee Bob Calverley, Jacob Strangfeld, and District Lecturer James R. Giese. The Village of Port Edwards will be presented with their FST unit separately as they were not able to attend.
Picture taken by Chris Williams (not pictured)