February 12 – “Badge Pinning”

We had a Valentine’s Day early date yesterday.  Pretty special.  I know.  It’s not Valentine’s Day yet.  But, to quote my comic strip hero, “Every day is Valentine’s Day to me.”  I said that to Chris and she replied, “Yeah.  I read that strip today, too.”  Ouch.  But we dressed up and went to Saltgrass Steakhouse.  We had a gift card.  Oh, and “dress up” was my fire department class A uniform.  Chris looked drop dead gorgeous, as usual.  And the date?  We went to the Fire Department badge pinning ceremony.  That counts, right?

 

Actually, the event was from the start quite impressive.  Chief Olsen told those of us in chairs to turn around.  There in the back, filling the remainder of the room, stood an amazing array of fire fighters in class A uniforms.  Beautiful sight.  Sure made me proud to be associated with the department.

 

We heard some really encouraging words from City Manager Brian Maxwell.  He said he was proud to be associated with the best fire department around.  Me to, Brian.  Me too.

 

We had a pretty large group of new recruits to be pinned this year.  One of my goals as chaplain this year is to meet all those guys and find out a little about them.  We also had about two years’ worth of promotions to be recognized.  The city hasn’t allowed us to have the ceremony because of Covid concerns.  Engineers and captains and even Assistant Chief Varela and Chief Olsen were recognized.  They all received their new badges from wives, girlfriends, children, and parents.  It was a very special time for the fire fighters, their family and friends, and the department. 

 

Several pins were awarded to guys who performed special acts of service, both to the department and the community.  Those ranged from Andy opening a part of his home to during Covid form infected fire fighters to live in, to the crew who performed life-saving procedures during a call. 

 

Three or four others received acknowledgment of their years of service and recent retirement.  Speaking of which, it was great top see former Chief Wisko.  He has lost a lot of weight and looks really great.  He was there to receive several awards related to his retirement.  He did, who is also a retired chief of the Galveston department was there as well.  It was also great to see Trish, the Admin who retired recently.  She is pretty much a legend around the department.

 

When the event ended we adjourned to the back of the room for cake and plenty of photos.  Speaking of photos, I45 News filmed the event.  Jenna and Nora did a fabulous job putting everything together.  Cudos to them, of course.  Great event.  Great evening.   Great date.

 

Proverbs 16:9 says, “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.”

 

Father, please grant these fire fighters your blessing and protection, both at work and in their family life.  Amen.