The force of Mother Nature could not stop 12,431 visitors from attending the 14th Annual North Regional Operations Bureau Fire Service Day on May 14! Even the 25-mile-per-hour wind gusts whipping through the Antelope Valley and Fire Station 129 did not impact the endless lines for tri-tip sandwiches, hamburger and hot dog combos, snow cones, popcorn, cotton candy and churro sticks.
Battalion Chief George Cruz, the incomparable LACoFD Honor Guard and the Tehachapi Mountain Pipes & Drums kicked off the traditional Division V Retirees Pancake Breakfast. Acting Assistant Fire Chief Cliff Meridth shared his heartfelt opening remarks knowing he was just a boot – - literally just a kid – -when many of the retirees present were fighting fires for LACoFD.
Senior Deputy Norm Hickling on behalf of Mayor Michael D. Antonovich presented a beautiful commendation in recognition of dedicated service and civic pride demonstrated for the benefit of all Los Angeles County residents. City of Lancaster Councilmember Marvin Crist presented a proclamation on behalf of Mayor R. Rex Parris and the City proclaiming May 14 as Fire Service Day. During the opening ceremony Representatives from U.S. Congressman Buck McKeon, Assemblyman Stephen Knight, California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department and California Highway Patrol were recognized for their continued support of LACoFD. Special awards were also given to Harley Davidson Owner and Principal Partner of Palmdale Robertson Honda, Ron Emard, and to Antelope Valley Transit Authority, for their gracious support to the Division V.
"What an amazing day for the Antelope Valley," said Fire Chief Daryl L. Osby. "The public can truly see close to everything we do at LACoFD in one day." Osby toured the entire facility, shaked hands, kissed babies and judged seven pots of chili with celebrity newscaster ABC 7 News Reporter Leo Stallworth.
Retired Fire Captain Joe Silva and "Pluggie," the Department's robot fire hydrant mascot, greeted visitors and put smiles on the faces of kids who attended his popular puppet show. Firefighters were water dunked, bagpipers piped, faces were painted, cars were burned and extricated, Fire Shop mechanics lifted a quint over their heads (seriously!), and firefighters rapelled from buildings and a helicopter. The Yogi Bear Shakey Quakey Schoolhouse was rocking as the scent of hot homemade chili was in the air; USAR and HAZMAT shared their specialized toys and the dog handlers handled their business!
Overall, event coordinator Fire Fighter Specialist Kirk Nelson and his planning team of 25 deserve a standing ovation for their endless hard work and commitment to coordinating the best North Region Fire Service Day ever! |
