Fire Department named best in AFMC two years running

  • Published
  • By J.C. Corcoran
  • Air Base Wing Public Affairs
Hanscom AFB --  For the second year in a row, the Hanscom Fire Department has been chosen as the best in the Air Force Materiel Command's small base category. 

"The Hanscom community is fortunate to have such a highly trained and professional team of firefighters," said Col. Tom Schluckebier, 66th Air Base Wing commander. "It's reassuring to know that these individuals are ready and able to respond in award-winning fashion. 

"Winning this award for the second year in a row is a true testament to the dedication of each member of our fire department. On behalf of the Hanscom community I congratulate them and thank them for what they do to keep our base and community safe," Colonel Schluckebier said. 

Chief Bob Hildreth couldn't be more proud; he praised the contributions made by each member of his team of professionals.

 "Every member of the fire department staff has contributed immeasurably to earning this award. It was a true team effort," he said. "The operational personnel ensure the equipment we have is maintained and ready to respond, and our fire prevention folks are out in the field daily inspecting and promoting fire safety," the chief said. 

"The communications staff continues to be the pulse of the fire protection program -- receiving the information and dispatching the appropriate units in an efficient and timely manner, while our administrative staff continues to provide the best in leadership, training and guidance in all areas of fire protection management," Chief Hildreth said. 

Col. Robert Boyles, 66th Mission Support Group commander, agrees with the chief that being best in the AFMC feels outstanding. 

"Firefighters hold a special place of honor in America; that's certainly true at Hanscom," Colonel Boyles said. "Daily, I listen on the radio as they respond to a variety of incidents on and off base. I'm extremely proud of our people. They are true professionals, " he said.

During 2006, Hanscom's fire department personnel responded to 619 structural, aircraft, medical, hazardous materials and mutual aid emergencies -- meeting or exceeding the Defense Department's response time criteria. 

More than 50 percent of the responses were in support of emergency medical incidents that required patient stabilization and care until medical transport was completed, Chief Hildreth said. During one such incident, fire department personnel responded to a victim suffering a heart attack. First responders from the fire department utilized the automatic defibrillator and other appropriate emergency procedures to revive and save the individual's life. 

Trained to serve, Hanscom's firefighters completed more than 6,000 man hours of training to enhance their performances and the quality of service they provide to the community.

 "It is our honor to serve the Hanscom Community and its leaders who continue to dedicate and promote positive attention to the fire prevention program," Chief Hildreth said.