What does it truly mean to “buy into” something bigger than yourself? It means investing not just your time, but your heart and soul. It means taking pride and ownership in a project that resonates deeply and dedicating yourself to making it the best it can be. For the members of the Missouri State Fair Volunteer Fire Department (MSFVFD), this concept isn’t just a theory – it’s a way of life.
The MSFVFD stands alone. As the only 11-day fire department in the nation, it holds a unique place in firefighting history. Year after year, dedicated volunteers converge on the Missouri State Fairgrounds, ready to serve and protect. They are the backbone of the operation, the individuals who ensure the safety of fairgoers and contribute to a tradition that spans generations.
And this year is particularly poignant. After decades of service, the current firehouse is slated for demolition after the fair, making way for a modern facility that will stand for the next 62 years and beyond. This marks a turning point, a bittersweet moment to reflect on the past and embrace the future.
It takes dedicated people like you who have helped out for one day to 30-plus years to make the fire department function. Time has taken its toll on the firehouse. Before this publication was released to the public a work session went by but we have two more coming July 18-20, August 1-3. But this being the last year for the current firehouse we will need the same dedicated people helping to make history. Your help will be needed on August 22-24, 29-31, September 5-7, and 12-14 if days are needed, to be announced soon.
This spirit of camaraderie and commitment is what defines the MSFVFD. It’s a team effort, a collective dedication that ensures the legacy of the department continues for generations to come. Whether you’ve been a long-time member or are considering joining for the first time, your contribution makes a difference.
Now, more than ever, the MSFVFD needs its dedicated members. They need the helping hands that have shaped its history and the enthusiasm of newcomers ready to embrace its future.
The upcoming work sessions are crucial. They offer a chance to prepare the firehouse for its final fair, to ensure it stands strong and provides a safe haven for the volunteers who will call it home for those 11 days.
Consider this a call to action. If you’ve ever been a part of the MSFVFD family, your help is needed. Your time, your skills, and your shared passion can contribute to a lasting legacy.
Come to the fair. Experience the energy and excitement, and witness firsthand the dedication of the MSFVFD. After the fair, join in the farewell to the old firehouse, a place filled with memories, laughter, and countless acts of service.
The future of the MSFVFD is bright. With a new firehouse on the horizon, the department is poised to continue its vital role for another 62 years and beyond. But it will take the same unwavering dedication, the same passion for service, and the same spirit of teamwork that has defined the department for so long.
Thank you for the memories. Thank you for the fun. And thank you for being a part of the MSFVFD family. The future awaits, and together, we can make it even brighter.
FFAM
