FIRE BUFF ROAD TRIPS

I have made the trip to Phoenix a few times, both on department business and just to chase fires. Thanks to retired Fire Chief Alan Brunacini, the PFD enjoys the reputation of being one of the premier fire departments in the United States. Providing protection to the citizens of Phoenix since, August 17th, 1886, the PFD continues to evolve, with respect for the past, responding to the present, and implementing with the future in mind.

The trips I have made to the Windy City were for a NFPA 921 Committee meeting and a train trip to buff there while traveling cross-country. I have to thank David Lewis of the Aurora Regional Fire Museum, Assistant Chief Greg Melyon of the Gary IN Fire Department, and the 5-11 Club for their hospitality during my visits. The 5-11 Club is engaged in a number of activities that are designed to provide direct and indirect support to the Chicago Fire Department and its members.

My buff trip photos here of Charm City’s fire department were from the 1984 and 1985 Firehouse Expo and Musters. While I have made a few other trips into Baltimore, I did not have much time to buff. My thanks to the late Jack Marsh of the Box 414 Club in Baltimore for an adventurous tour (and great meal) one night when I was at the National Fire Academy. Since 1979, this club has operated the fire museum at 414 North Gay Street, its name recalling Box 414 as the first alarm box pulled for the Great Baltimore Fire of 1904.

OK, I have to admit that these photos of the Memphis Fire Department were a bit of a fluke. Lori and I were traveling east along Interstate 40 in Elvis’ home town when I spotted smoke. So, after jumping off the highway we spent about an hour being the accidental tourists and took in this fire in an abandoned house. Have camera will travel!

These are some shots from a few trips to St. Louis. I was never a big fan of air travel and spent a few years traveling by car or train to go back east. After my first trip to St. Louis, I was hooked. Guys like Tom Wansong, Jon Chrzanowski, and Paul Brown went out of their way to make sure all of my fire buffing needs were taken care of. Many members of the Box 8 Club staff the Salvation Army’s canteen to rehab St. Louis’ Bravest, and offer a city-wide buffing experience that provides plenty of photo opportunities.