Hanscom Fire Department named best in AFMC Published April 14, 2008 By J.C. Corcoran 66th Air Base Wing Public Affairs HANSCOM AFB, Mass. -- For the third year in a row, the Hanscom Fire Department has been chosen as the Best in Air Force Materiel Command in the small base category. Chief Bob Hildreth said the department couldn't have accomplished this without outstanding support across the base. "Although the department has been recognized for this award, I want to recognize all the people who have assisted us in reaching this milestone," he said. "The support and enforcement of fire safety policies given by our commanders; the conducting of quality inspections and the timely correction of deficiencies by our facility managers and the great cooperation of our base populace in adhering to and understanding fire safety rules have all played a part in this recognition," Chief Hildreth said. "On behalf of our devoted team of professional firefighters, whose hard work and dedication played a major role, we thank all of Hanscom for their devotion and support in this truly total team effort." According to the chief, the Hanscom Fire Department responded to 578 structural, aircraft, medical, HAZMAT and mutual aid emergencies during the award period. Each response met or exceeded Department of Defense response time criteria and professional standards while displaying superior command and control skills. This past year, Hanscom Firefighters accomplished over 5,854 man hours of training, which included joint training and exercise with local fire service organizations. The "cross-training" agreement provides for the sharing of a broad range of experience, technology, availability of specialized equipment and resources fostering a professional teamwork atmosphere between Hanscom and its neighbors, according to the chief. The Hanscom Fire Department will now compete for top honors as the AFMC's representative at the DoD level competition.