Sundre and surrounding area residents are blessed to have such a committed and dedicated crew of volunteer firefighters, said the department's chief.
“I couldn't ask for any better,” said Marty Butts during the annual Fireman's Ball, which was held Saturday, Oct. 22 at the Sundre Legion. The evening, which is not so much a fundraiser but rather an opportunity to celebrate the volunteer firefighters, featured a succulent prime rib supper with all the fixings followed by live music by the band Rooster in a Henhouse.
When the devastating wildfires around Fort McMurray threatened that city, Sundre's volunteer firefighters all expressed a desire to join a local five-person crew that teamed up with other departments in Mountain View County, he said to a nearly full house.
“I had all 30-some members with their hands up, and they didn't even bat an eye,” he said, adding the local department embarked upon two tours.
“I could ask again tomorrow and they would do it.”
However, those who remained behind to ensure Sundre's safety in the others' absence also deserve recognition, he said.
“You didn't burn the town down while I was gone!” said the chief, invoking some laughter from the crowd.
“Rank showed its structure, everybody stepped in their roles and did an awesome job.”
By the end of the year, the Sundre Fire Department will have responded to upwards of 200 calls. The chief expressed unwavering gratitude for those local businesses that accommodate volunteers who might have to respond at a moment's notice.
“Without the businesses supporting that, it's pretty hard.”
Butts also acknowledged the crucial contributions of two local companies that provide assistance in terms of making available invaluable training opportunities such as vehicle extrication exercises as well as water rescue scenarios.
“Without that, we can't keep our skills up.”