February 9 - “Honor”

Yesterday I went to a funeral for a former fire chief of Galveston, Willie Wisko. His son Mike is also a retired fire chief now.  Mike was the chief for many of the years that I have been chaplain. The service was held at Moody Methodist Church, where the elder Chief Wisko was married and raised his family.

 

I saw representatives from fire departments all over Texas. Among others, there were guys from:  Santa Fe, Dickinson, Alvin, Bacliff, Madisonville, Friendswood, Plainview, Harris County, Forest Bend, and Village FD (not sure where that is). There were lots of retirees from the Galveston Fire Department, as well as current firefighters.

 

The Honor Guard did its usual amazing job. They stood watch before and during the service in a reverent and professional manner. Made me proud to be associated with them, for sure.

 

During the service, Chief Wisko’s cousin shared some fun stories about his days as a kid when he learned from his guy cousins some “interesting” behaviors. His daughter shared what it was like to have him as a Dad, and granddaughter did the same about her special touch with him.

 

After the service, the casket was solemnly placed into a fire truck, and the pall bearers joined in as well. That truck led the procession of fire engines, command vehicles, friends and family to the cemetery off the island. Our sister department, Santa Fe, hosted a meal in their large station after that.

 

All in all, it was an impressive display of respect for Chief Wisko and encouragement for his family.

 

Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”

 

Father, please be with all of the Wisko family as they walk through some tough days ahead. Thank you for their commitment to you. And thank you for the fine men of the fire service who stood up for the fire department family. Amen.