The borough of West Grove was blessed with a cool sunny day for the annual Memorial Day Parade. The equipment was washed and polished and the members arrived in abundant force. A full complement of fire apparatus and EMS vehicles were staffed. Included was the pride of our fleet, the 1928 Hale pumper, affectionately known as "Elsie".

The Fire Chief, Eric Felker, had the honor of leading the department down the parade route which started at Avon Grove High School. Our neighboring department, Station 23, Avondale, also participated in the parade. The borough's residents lined the streets leading to West Grove's Memorial Park. Young and old alike expressed their thanks and showed support with applause as the brigade rolled by.

As firefighters and EMS workers, we face risk and danger on every call. Some would even go as far as to describe us as "heroes". You would be hard pressed to find someone at West Grove Fire Company to accept that title. Most would express that word is best reserved for the men and women of the armed forces. It is these people that work every day without concern for themselves to provide the blanket of freedom under which we have the honor to serve. On this Memorial Day, we pause and praise their efforts. We thank them for their service and honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

Photos by Todd Mazur.