Couple Donates $100K to Rugby, ND, Firefighters who were Prompt, Nice

Dec. 16, 2024

Rugby Fire Chief Joel Berg said the donation will enable the department to replace the 1970s Suburban with a new brush truck.

Susan Nicol

Being polite and compassionate has paid off in a big way for Rugby firefighters.

Jim and Gerd Tuchscherer wanted to thank the firefighters for their response to their farm, 16 miles from the station, over the past years. So, they gave them $100,000.

“They were prompt, courteous, very professional. They make sure you’re well and safe. Then, they go back and do what they do back to their civilian jobs,” Jim told KFYR.

The couple said their hopes are for other farmers and ranchers in the area to get the help they need.

Fire Chief Joel Berg said they will be replacing their oldest grass rig, a 1970s Suburban, with a brand new vehicle with newer equipment.

Berg said this will not only create a more efficient response time but will also benefit taxpayers.

“Asked him if he had any specifications, he wanted us to use it for. He said, ‘No, it’s your money. I’m giving it to you. You guys spend it how you feel you need or whatever you want.’”

About the Author

Susan Nicol | News Editor

Susan Nicol is the news editor for Firehouse.com. She is a life member and active with the Brunswick Volunteer Ambulance & Rescue Company, Oxford Fire Company and Brunswick Vol. Fire Co. Susie has been an EMT in Maryland since 1976. Susie is vice-president of the Frederick County Fire/Rescue Museum. She is on the executive committee of Frederick County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association. She also is part of the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS) Region II EMS Council. Susie is a board member of the American Trauma Society, Maryland Division. Prior to joining the Firehouse team, she was a staff writer for The Frederick News-Post, covering fire, law enforcement, court and legislative issues.