Thoughts from the Tailboard
As I write this month’s article, I wonder what in the heck is going on with the weather. It’s mid-February and the temperatures are in the 50’s and 60’s sometimes reaching 70. This isn’t normal for any of us in South Dakota. I know some of you have had really cold stuff, but in Rapid City, something’s going to happen. Knock on wood.
It’s that time of year when spring district fire schools are popping up. Keep a close eye out there could just be one near you. Take these opportunities to increase your already vast knowledge of fire. Don’t take the attitude that I’ve already had that class so there’s nothing new to hear or learn. As someone who has been fortunate to attend the National Fire Academy a number of times, there is as much to learn talking to someone you haven’t met. It can be amazing what you will pick up. Besides, it’s generally a short drive and the cost is literally nothing.
On a sad note, 2025 was tough. Al Christie, Jim Stevens, Mike Maier, Russ Hendrix, Nick Van Dam. Al was the State Fire Marshall, Jim a long-time member of the Hot Spring VFD and Mike long time member of the North Haines VFD, Russ a member of Pierre FD and Nick with the Murdo VFD. All these gentlemen have made me think. I never fought fire with Al, Russ, or Nick but they were firefighters. Jim we worked together on several large wildland fires in the Hot Springs area over the years. Always someone who had a great outlook on life no matter what was happening. Mike and I were in North Haines together for 39 years. We fought lots of fires, had long talks about who knows what. As I sat and thought about each of them during their service I realized it all came down to a small wooden box. Their entire fire service life. I don’t mean to make this sound trivial, but it seems there should be something more. I don’t know what, but something. As was said at the Fall Conference at the memorial service, as long as you say their name they are not forgotten. So, here’s saying their names, Al, Jim, Mike, Russ, and Nick you are not forgotten.
Of course, I have to make a pitch for making sure your departments 2026 Membership dues are paid. A quick ask of your treasurer and that should answer that. The benefits far outweigh the costs. Ok that’s it for this month; I won’t harp on dues any longer.
Fire school in June planning is well underway. Instructors contacted, classes determined, there is no reason it will not be another great learning opportunity. Keep a close eye on our Facebook page, and email when pre-registration will open. Stay tuned.
With that I’ll close for this month, hopefully there is something here worth your time to read.
Stay safe and learn something new and pass it on.
Denny Gorton, Treasurer and Past President