September 1 – “GFD Pinning”

Last night was the annual Galveston Fire Department pinning ceremony.  That is the occasion whereby the new hires (A.K.A. “Rookies”) and those who have earned promotions have their badges pinned on their uniform by someone who they consider to be special in their lives.  There were other special presentations as well, so the event has become one that is anticipated every year.  Well, it certainly is by me, anyway.

The department’s pride and joy, the Honor Guard, started off the festivities by presenting the colors.  Four flags – of the United States, Texas, City of Galveston, and Galveston Fire Department - and two ceremonial axes were proudly marched down the aisle of the Grand and the flags were set in their places at the front.  That team of gentlemen started the event off as it should, with a display of respect and pride. 

The rookie part of the event drew in a lot of friends and family.  Wives, girlfriends, sisters, and even a few grandmothers got in on the act, making this a really special time for the new Galveston fire fighters.  I remember when Chris pinned Nathan’s badge for the first time.  It is truly an occasion worthy of being marked by ceremony.  The promotions were all old hand at the ceremony part, but I’m pretty sure they were more than a little bit proud to have family on hand.  Jared’s grandmother kind of stole the show with her two Honor Guard escorts, but her presence made him stand a little prouder. 

The special presentations section included several different honorees.  The front of the room was filled with guys who have at one time or another left their families for a week or so to help other departments around the state fight wildfires and recover from floods. 

Several specific occasions of heroism were honored  where people were brought back literally from the brink of death.  And the response of the fire fighters?  We’re just doing our job.  I for one was proud to honor not just their skills and commitment to the public, but also their humility. 

Several guys received bars for special service to the department and community. Great examples here are the guys who represented the department in hosting the National Honor Guard Academy (Nice job, Jonathan and Nathan), and the Honor Guard fund raiser, spearheaded by David and his wife Morgan (That was a lot of work.  Well done). 

The Hitchcock Volunteer Fire Department was recognized for its efforts in mutual aid with Galveston over the past year. 

A retired guy who has become a liaison of sorts between the department and retirees received a special thanks.

City department heads, and the city manager were honored for working with the department on the political side.  The mayor gave a speech acknowledging the impact the department has on the public’s lives day in and day out. 

Even the fire chief was surprised with a commendation for his work as a leader in the department. 

We almost had a bit of a glitch at the end, but it was smoothed over quickly, and the colors were retired with grace and respect once again by the honor guard.

Oh, and one more thing.  I want to say a special thanks to the rookies and others for publishing pictures on FaceBook.  I need all the help I can get to get to know you new guys a little better.

1 Corinthians 13:13 says, “And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.”

Father, thank you for the new fire fighters entering the family.  And thank you for the chance to honor accomplishments and relationships.  Amen.