Olney Volunteer Fire Dept. Hosted 107th Annual Banquet and Sends Best Wishes to Retired Firemen

Olney Volunteer Fire Department hosted its 107th annual banquet Thursday, Feb. 21, at the Olney Civic Center.

The evening began with the invocation by Donald Ickert followed by the biblical scripture that included on the program cover. “I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send? Who will go for them?’ Then I said, “Here I am; send me.” (Isaiah 6:8) This scripture gives us a glimpse into the bravery of our volunteer fireman who risks their lives to protect ours.

Paul McQueen served as the master of ceremonies and extended a special thank-you to the firemen. “The City of Olney and the surrounding areas appreciate the work you do.” He recognized the dignitaries who attended along with other special guests.

Mando Molina, a local singer and songwriter, sang several songs that included a mix of cover songs along with his original songs. One of the crowd favorites was his song about his hometown of Olney. Molina played his acoustic guitar and entertained the attendees with his personal stories and humor.

While listening to Molina, guests enjoyed a meal prepared by Wild Bill’s Chuck Wagon Cooking. Stacy Speers and Mallory Keeter created the unique table decorations.

Fire Chief Ron Keeter introduced and inducted the new fireman: Hunter Enloe, Casey Keeter and Spencer Cox. Next, they presented the retiring fireman with plaques. Sam Sullivan retired after serving for 36 years, and Norman Hampton retired after 25 years of service.

A final recognition was to the entire list of volunteer fireman and officers:

Firefighters: Len Bernhardt, Justin Calhoun, Cody Dixon, Jake Englishbee, Hunter Enloe, Norman Hampton, Jeff Harvey, Casey Keeter, Homer Molina, Jason Pack, Jerry Don Riggins, Johnny Riggins, Teddy Scobee, Jimmy Smith, Danny Speers, Kevin Sullivan and Sam Sullivan

Officers: Trampas Patton (President), John Schneider (Vice president), Mathew Ickert (Secretary), Ron Keeter (Chief), Clint Pulliam (Assistant Chief), Donald Ickert (Assistant Chief), Kenley Lane (Captain), Mario Cortinez (Captain), Rocky Hickam (Lieutenant), Kade Betts (Lieutenant), Gunter Rodriguez (Chaplain) and Cye Dixon (Mascot).

The fire department thanks the 2019 sponsors: Berend Brothers, Taco Casa, Olney Interbank, Golden Chick, Hickam Trucking, Lawana’s Family Diner, Chicken Express, Jerry’s, Stewart’s, Tower, Chuck’s Kwik Change, Burgers N’ Billiards, Wild Bill’s Chuck Wagon Cooking, Mando Molina and the City of Olney.