In April 1969, Bill Wright was entering adulthood and his friends encouraged him to usher in this new phase by joining them as volunteers at Garden City Fire Company. He had no idea that his decision to volunteer would lead him to enlist in the United States Air Force mere months later, deepening his commitment to serving others.
“I was voted into the fire company on my 18th birthday, which coincided with a company meeting night. At the time, 18 was the minimum age to join,” said Wright. “I enlisted in September 1969, but was not called to leave for basic training until February 1970 due to the volume of people trying to join.”
Wright completed basic training in Lackland Air Force Base and technical training at Sheppard Air Force Base in Texas, and then immediately reported to Osan Air Force Base in South Korea for a 13-month tour. Wright spent his last two years stationed at Eglin Air Force Base in Florida and was honorably discharged in February 1974 as a Staff Sergeant.
“While in the Air Force, I learned how to work and live with different kinds of people all over the world in some very trying conditions,” said Wright.
Wright returned home and landed a job in Fairbanks Scales in 1974 as a service technician, which he retained until he retired in 2014, and assimilated back into life at the Garden City Fire Company.
“When I returned home, I found the fellowship and camaraderie in the company to resemble the military,” said Wright. “I started as the fire company’s Recording Secretary around 1975, which I held until 1985 when I was elected Company President.”
Wright was President for 20 years, and during that time also served as Engineer, Chief Engineer, Lieutenant, Captain and Assistant Chief. In 2004, at the age of 53, Wright suffered a Heart attack and was forced to give up firefighting activities. In 2005, Wright stepped down as President, and in 2014, he was appointed Vice President, a position he still holds today.
“My favorite parts about volunteering are the friends I have made over the years and socializing with them,” said Wright.
Since 1944, Garden City Fire Company has been protecting and serving the citizens of Nether Providence Township, Rose Valley Borough and surrounding areas. The fire company is entirely volunteer and constantly recruiting new members to join its team of lifesavers.
“If you’re looking to make a difference, challenge yourself and make lasting relationships, Garden City Fire Company may be the place for you. We will train you, gear you up, and welcome you into our firefighting family,” said Garden City Fire Company Chief Pat O’Rourke.
To volunteer or learn more about Garden City Fire Company, visit www.GardenCityFirefighter.org.