The event to acknowledge their service and sacrifice is set for Sunday at the church located on Hawthorne Road, when they host Civil Service Appreciation Day during the 11 a.m. worship service.
"They go to bed every night not expecting a good night sleep. Phone calls come in the middle of the night. They get out of bed leaving their families. Their families wonder when they'll return home. Police never know what situation they will find when they approach a car, and fire fighters and rescue workers when they arrive at the scene," Mayor Tom Gwyn said. These jobs involve "so much uncertainty when they respond to a call we need to pay tribute to the family members as well for their sacrifice."
Pastor Chuck Baker mentioned the idea to the worship committee earlier this year. With the help of Gwyn and Pam Fencl, a longtime town employee, personal letters were sent to 66 employees and volunteers from all three organizations, inviting them and their families to attend the service. This is the first time an emphatic effort to include all three organizations and recognized them in joint service has been made. Baker also wants "all retired persons and former volunteers to attend and be recognized. There was just know way to contact everyone that has been involved with the departments over the years, we extend them an open invitation," Baker said.
After talking with town officials Fencl realized the need for the service in the community. "They thought it was a great idea, knowing that often fire, police and rescue don't get recognized for what they do unless someone has a personal experience and they are on the job all the time." From responding to fires and accidents to getting cats out of trees, these jobs cover a broad spectrum of duties.
The Elkin rescue squad is the second oldest chartered rescue squad in the state for years of continuous service.
"We feel it is well-worth the effort of taking the time to intentionally thank the three squads for what they do and recognize them," according to Baker. Afterwards we want to give the community the chance to thank them face to face.
Vehicles from the organizations will be on-hand for viewing. Little ones are encouraged to attend and join everyone for punch outside. "We want them to gain an appreciation for what they do," said Baker.
The sermon will be on how a close walk with God opens our eyes and softens our hearts to people in need. This is a continuation on "the benefits of a close walk with God" sermon series. "This is what they do everyday and we as Christians are called to do," Baker said.
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