History of the Level Green Volunteer Fire Department
The Level Green Volunteer Fire Department was organized and chartered in September of 1930. At that time, Level Green was home to about 70 families. The inception was motivated by several fires in the area including a fatal fire. Level Green was the second fire department formed in Penn Township.
Our first chief was Fred Biggs who also served as a sheriff of Penn Township. Charter and early members included: George H. Altman, Jim Altman, Fred Biggs, James Brown Sr., William L. Graham, Joe Hide, Walter Holsinger, Richard Klug, Al E. McClintock, W. B. McWilliams, George Newell, Alf Painter Sr., William R. Pedder, Frank Surma, Ray Walters, Bill Wampler, Ralph Whitney Sr.
The first fire truck was a Stewarts Chemical-type truck. The second apparatus acquired was a new white 1941 Ford fire truck with a front-mounted pump. The initial fire station was an old shed, later the station was located under the old one room school, which also served Level Green as a community center, church, dance hall and playhouse. The property where the fire station is now located was acquired in 1946. The initial station on the property was a single bay garage with an attached social hall and small kitchen. That initial structure has seen three additions over the years.
In the 30s the fire department was known for its June carnivals that included games, a parade and even a fireworks display. In the 40s the department was known for hosting musicals and plays for the community.
Just like the community we serve, we have evolved over the years. Expanding from the single apparatus in the beginning to our current fleet of five emergency response vehicles. Today in addition to fire calls, we respond to vehicle rescues, other assorted rescue calls, emergency medical assists and hazardous material responses. As safety threats have changed our training and equipment have changed. Throughout it all, we have been a 100% volunteer force staffed by dedicated men and women of the community.
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