The Gray Fire Department kicked off the holiday season earlier this month with its annual awards banquet, recognizing the dedication and hard work of its volunteer firefighters and support staff.
While many volunteer organizations struggle with recruiting and retaining members, the GFD seems to have found the recipe with 32 members on the active roster.
The Dec. 4 banquet was held at Butler Hall in Gray and included a delicious meal catered by Deuce Black.
Gray Fire Chief Keith Eisele began the evening with a welcome to all in attendance, which included all the current elected officials of the Gray City Council. The chief also recognized the fire department retirees whom he noted collectively gave more than 75 years of service to the City of Gray.
“It’s a privilege to stand in the same room with the people who helped build this department,” he said.
“Your work, leadership and example continue to shape who we are today.”
This year marks Eisele’s 20th year with the Gray Fire Department, and he has served as chief since 2018. Eisele stated that one of his goals when taking the role of chief was to strengthen the department’s service and improve the safety of the community. That included the challenge of lowering the city’s ISO rating.
Of the 37,730 fire departments in the United States, fewer than 35 percent hold a Class 4 rating or better. In Georgia that percentage is 10.3.
“This year, thanks to your remarkable dedication, the City of Gray officially achieved a Class 3 rating. That accomplishment belongs to every one of you. Thank you for your hard work, your discipline and your commitment to excellence,” the chief said.
Awards
The award recognition began after the meal.
Eisele stated the awards were not routine or symbolic, but a celebration of everything the recipients have poured into the department.
