Recognizing the Washington Borough Fire Department

While we are deeply saddened by the loss of the Washington Antique Center, we feel

compelled to ensure the community understands that this could have been a tragedy of greater magnitude, had it not been for the remarkable efforts of the Washington Borough Fire Department and their mutual aid companies.

Not only did they fight that fire for nearly 24 hours, but they were able to keep the fire from spreading to any adjacent buildings on the north side of the street. There was no serious structural damage to other buildings, there was no loss of life (perhaps the most important fact), no serious injury, and the totally burnt structure fell in place, without damaging any other structures in town.

Our firefighters train hard and for a purpose just as this; we need to stand up and cheer for them and thank them for everything they do. Additionally, we need to extend our thanks to the men and women from all of the other responding fire departments for their assistance. Had they not been available, we would have had quite a disaster.

We must also recognize the first aid and emergency squad members from Washington and surrounding communities that stood by and assisted in aiding the fireman. Had the fire gone the wrong way, they were prepared.

Keep in mind that our fire department is totally a volunteer organization. We are honored to serve in a community amongst them.