On Sunday, May 5, the Hamburg Volunteer Fire Department will put into service their brand new fire engine by hosting a christening/wash down ceremony at 5 p.m. at the Hamburg Fire Station.
Members of the department along with the community are invited to participate in this ceremonial tradition. The wash down ceremony harkens back to the days of horse-drawn pumpers when both the horses and fire engines would be washed outside the station after a call. The company would then push the engine back into place to be ready for the next run.
The idea for the ceremony originated from members of the department after seeing professional firefighter and motivational speaker Rick Lasky, the author of “Pride & Ownership: A Firefighter’s Love of the Job.” The book highlights values associated with the fire service, such as integrity, honor and pride.
“This engine was possible because we come together as a community,” Chief Gauerke said, “and we want everyone to be a part of this new tradition.” Additionally, Assistant Fire Chief Kris Zuleger stated, “The fire department would like to dedicate this apparatus to the community we proudly serve.”
Established in 1961, the Hamburg Volunteer Fire Department covers four townships for fire and first responder services. The firemen and first responders also volunteer their time with educational programs; such as, the “Fired up to Read” program at Maple Grove School, fire prevention day and hunter and bow hunter safety, as well as other community events. They also provide first aid at the Lincoln County Fair and Edgar Steam Show.