Freedom Awards presented to area volunteer fire departments

September 9, 2013 Freedom Awards presented to area volunteer fire departments

Staff Report The Daily Register Mon Sep 09, 2013, 03:43 PM CDT

Gainesville Special to the Register

Republican County Chairman Chuck Bartush presented 2013 Freedom Awards to participating volunteer fire departments at the conclusion of the Oak Ridge VFDs 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony and Celebration on Saturday. Along with the Oak Ridge firefighters, departments from Callisburg, Gordonville, Lindsay, Moss Lake, North Shore and Valley View were recognized.

Bartush thanked the volunteers, and described how the selflessness of volunteer first responders and firefighters exemplifies the exceptionalism of the United States. They are, he said, ordinary citizens performing extraordinary deeds to benefit their neighbors.

Many times in this day and age, Bartush explained. People take their freedom for granted or just use freedom as an opportunity to take for themselves. But our Cooke County volunteer firefighters use their freedom not to take for themselves, but to give to others. They represent everything that is great and good in our Country.

The first presentation was made to the Muenster Volunteer Fire Department at their fundraiser on Saturday, Aug. 10. The remaining VFDs of Cooke County will receive their awards in the coming weeks.

The Cooke County Republican Party intends to present the Freedom Award annually to recognize those special people or entities who use their cherished freedom for the benefit of all.

Originally posted here:
Freedom Awards presented to area volunteer fire departments