Wisconsin Rapids Masonic Lodge No. 128 held a Firefighter Appreciation Event on October 6, for all seven 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 but will be presented with their Fire Suppression Tool (FST) unit separately.
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 from the Lodge also 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.
Submitted by District Lecturer James R. Giese
