Letter to the Editor: Thanks to Fire Department, First Responders

Fundamental to American history and American culture is the volunteer and Hillsdale is a community with a strong spirit of volunteerism.

When it became clear that Hurricane Sandy was an eminent threat I went to the firehouse. There I saw emergency professionals engaged in preparing for a major storm. I saw spouses cooking and cleaning and caring for the children of others. I also saw children fearful of their moms and dads potentially getting hurt. I saw cadets, high school teenagers not on iPhones texting, but getting equipment ready to be used. 

I saw the Hillsdale Volunteer Fire Department become the center of our community.

Whether they are responding to an emergency call, rescuing residents from flooded homes, putting out a fire, making sure our streets are safe from debris, Hillsdale residents can count on the Hillsdale Volunteer Fire Department. They are prepared, professional and caring and most of all they are there when we need them.

I see first-hand what these individuals are called on to do. I can assure you that we are well protected. I am proud of our fire department and the men and women who serve in our fire department. They give of themselves to support us all. 

These individuals are our neighbors, co-workers, town officials, teachers, students moms, dads, grandparents, sisters, brothers, and our own children.  They sacrifice their personal time, away from their children, after working full-time jobs, to keep us safe. 

What keeps these individuals going in the face of adversity?  

Their unyielding desire to give.

This amazing group of individuals is core to our community and I invite you to take a break from your busy life, walk down to the firehouse and meet them, see what they do; but before leaving, please extend your hand and thank them.

Please also thank our police department, Office of Emergency Management, ambulance corps and Department of Public Works.  

THANK YOU ALL for everything that you do to make Hillsdale a safe community.

Frank A. Pizzella

Hillsdale Fire Commissioner