A donor who wishes to remain anonymous surprised Ocala Fire Rescue firefighters with a gift crafted specifically for Station No. 5, a wooden rendition of the recently unveiled station logo for the “Sleepless Knights”.
Ocala Fire Chief Bradd Clark, Councilman Justin Grabelle, and fire personnel at Station No. 5 gathered to accept the the donation. Having no idea of how the rendition looked, expectations ran wild among by those on site.
Removing the plastic covering in one swoop, a masterfully crafted piece of art was unveiled. The 35-by-23-inch single slab of Iroko wood was carved as the knight’s bust in full armor, including helmet, pauldrons, chest plate, and gauntlet gloves, and holding a cup of smoldering coffee in one hand and a New York hook in the other.
“Today, we appreciate the thoughtfulness and generosity of the gift, and the availability and support Councilman Grabelle,” said Fire Chief Bradd Clark said. “The citizens who envisioned and delivered this beautiful gift have our most sincere gratitude.”
The hyperbolic rendition of Station No. 5's logo was inspired by the station’s motto, a play on words for the many nights spent without slumber due to the high volume of overnight calls that he station is summoned to.
The 22-pound carving doesn’t only serve as a demonstration of this station’s pride, it embodies the character of firefighters assigned to Station No. 5.
