Many years ago, when we lived and worked in England, members of the Surrey and London Fire Brigades would frequently tell me how remarkable it was that the United States had so many volunteer fire departments. They just couldn't comprehend that Americans would volunteer for such a risky commitment. I would reply how very proud I was that my Dad and my brothers were volunteer firefighters, but how else would our small, rural town be safe?
Last week the International Association of Fire Chiefs' Volunteer & Combination Officers Section celebrated their 20th anniversary during their annual Symposium in the Sun in Tampa, Fla. Since 1994, I've watched VCOS grow from a handful of dedicated volunteer chiefs and officers, determined to help support and educate America's volunteer fire chiefs and departments, into the strongest section of the IAFC.
From the first VCOS conference 15 years ago to last week's VCOS Symposium in the Sun, I continue to be blown away by the straight-forward, hard-hitting programs offered. With vendors at table-top displays ready to answer questions and a unique selection of programs on the latest trends or updates, the entire conference has packed rooms and riveting presenters. Most of the attendees are on their own dime and it is money invested with good results.
Not advertised, but perhaps the most impressive part of the conference is on Saturday night. Instead of sitting in bars, attendees gather around tables in a large room for an informal sharing of ideas, problems and talk. It's not unlike a massive "kitchen table" discussion that you don't want to end.
Over the years, I have watched VCOS grow and secure support for many of their educational programs through partnerships, particularly with Pierce Mfg., a leader in fire and emergency apparatus. Through the donation of $100 from every Pierce fire truck sold to a volunteer department, to their support for the "Beyond Helmets and Hoses" leadership training programs. VCOS is all that is good about volunteerism in America--commitment and dedication to help others, with no expectations or fanfare.
I've always had a special place in my heart for volunteer departments. Maybe because I saw the passion for helping others my Dad and my brothers had. I watched their time commitments to training, efforts to raise money for equipment and fighting fires till early morning and then going to their day jobs.
The nation has changed a lot in 50 years since my Dad was a volunteer firefighter. Technology and electronics promised time-saving, but in fact, has left many with less time. The economy demands two-income families, fathers are more involved in raising kids and new hazards and responsibilities demand more education, training and certification of firefighters.
VCOS works because there are no egos involved. It is the best of volunteers and departments transitioning to full-time firefighters, yet investing more time to help make the fire and emergency services better across the country.
I think VCOS has done an amazing job of working--volunteering!--to bring professionalism through education and networking to the thousands of small fire departments, dedicated to serving their communities the best they can with what they have.
Volunteers are a rich part of our American heritage. Thank you VCOS for 20 years of enriching the fire and emergency service in America.
