Bristol Firefighters.com

BLOG RE-LAUNCH!

2009-12-18T18:47:00.002-02:00

Hey Readers!

I am pleased to annouce that Brother O'Quinn has agreed to help (co-edit) the website!

I the next few days we will get up and going again.

So once again if you have photos stories etc send them in!

Thanks and we look forward to the re-launch!

Updating the site!!!

2009-05-06T15:09:00.003-02:00

in the last comment from Mr. Tax payer...
Bristol Firefighters.com is designed to showcase the Officers and Firefighters at Bristol Virginia and Tennessee Fire Departments. This Blog and the Views Expressed Do not reflect the views of the Bristol Fire Department or Local 2499 of the IAFF. All views are expressed by the Webmaster and Visitors.

Translation I own this domain and this site! Not either city or firefighters union!

I maintain this site as time allows! I do not update it on city time I only update it when I get a chance.

I truly am glad that you the taxpayers look at this site it truly honors me to know that tax paying citizens look at this site!

In reference to the Official Site for the two cities.....Bristol Tennessee's site is awesome they have done a really good job! Bristol Virginia's site has just been put online! I actually did that site as well bit the city has to approve all of the content on it before it is posted!

Now to the real reason why this site has not been updated as much as I would like well here goes....

I am a Husband first and a dad second. During my time off I spend with them and I just don't get around to updating the site I am sorry but that is the truth. I have also written and posted things on many other sites example www.vafirenews.com, www.VentEnterSearch.com and, www.Southbendfire.com. I would love to have help on this site....any takers please email me the link is on the right side of the blog!

Anyway I thank you again for you comment I just wanted to clarify with everyone that this not a "City" site! It is one to showcase the firefighters and fire departments!

Thanks and feel free to leave a comment

S. Roark

New post

2009-04-20T14:36:00.002-02:00

Well I have so much to say but to be honest it is best kept to myself!

What do you have to say

Leave a comment

Also, Congrats to the Administration it is budget time and I know things are busy but I hope we see some positive changes to come!

Roark

Update on Services for SGT Morphew

2009-01-29T21:10:00.001-02:00

Services for Johnny Earl Morphew Jr.

The family will receive friends at the Chilhowie United Methodist Church located at 501 Old Stage Rd. in Chilhowie, VA. Visitation will be held on Jan. 30
from 1-3 pm for Fire and Rescue Personnel and from 5-8 pm to all other family and friends.

The funeral services will be conducted at Chilhowie United Methodist Church at 501 Old Stage Rd. on Jan. 30 at 8pm following the visitation.

Graveside Services will be held on Sat. Jan. 31 at Macedonia Baptist Church located at 1183 St. Clairs Creek Rd. in Chilhowie, VA. The procession will meet at the church at 9:45 to begin line up. The procession will leave the church at 10:15 to the cemetery. The procession will take the following route: Leaving the Chilhowie United Methodist Church traveling down Church St. to Lee Hwy. Turn Right onto Lee Hwy. and travel to the Red Light. Take a left at the Red Light and travel 7 miles on Whitetop Rd. to Rabmlewood Ln. Turn Left on Ramblewood Ln. and travel 1 mile to St. Clairs Creek Rd. Turn Left on St. Clairs Creek Rd. and travel ¼ mile to Macedonia Baptist Church on the Right.

Staging for apparatus at Chilhowie United Methodist Church:
All emergency vehicles will follow the listed directions below. Please limit to
your emergency vehicles to ONE (1) per agency and try to carpool all
personnel due to limited parking and staging areas.

Staging for apparatus at Macedonia Baptist Church:
All emergency vehicles will follow the above listed procession route. All
Emergency vehicles will be staged along St. Clairs Creek Rd. in front of the
Macedonia Baptist Church. There will be traffic control in place to assist
with parking of the apparatus.

Directions

From I-81 Coming South:
Traveling South on I-81, take Exit 39. Turn Right at top of ramp and immediately turn Left onto Lee Hwy. Travel 3 miles to Lyons Gap Rd. on Right. Turn Right onto Lyons Gap Rd. and travel 100 yards to Old Stage Rd. Turn Left on Old Stage Rd. and travel 1 mile to Chilhowie United Methodist Church on Right.

From I-81 Coming North:
Traveling North on I-81, take Exit 35. Turn Left at bottom of ramp on Whitetop Rd. Go to the Red Light, approximately ¼ mile, and turn Right onto Lee Hwy. Travel Lee Hwy. for 1 ¼ miles to Lyons Gap Rd. on the Left. Turn Left on Lyons Gap Rd and travel 100 yards to Old Stage Rd. Turn Left on Old Stage Rd. and travel 1 mile to Chilhowie United Methodist Church on Right.

From Whitetop Rd. Coming North:
At the Red Light, turn Right onto Lee Hwy. Travel 1 ¼ miles to Lyons Gap Rd. on Left. Turn Left onto Lyons Gap Rd. and travel 100 yards to Old Stage Rd. on Left. Turn Left on Old Stage Rd. and travel 1 mile to Chilhowie United Methodist Church on Right.

From Hwy.107 Coming South
At Red Light turn Left onto Lee Hwy. Travel 1 ¼ miles to Lyons Gap Rd. on Left. Turn Left onto Lyons Gap Rd. and travel 100 yards to Old Stage Rd. on the Left. Turn Left onto Old Satge Rd. and travel 1 mile to Chilhowie United Methodist Church on Right.

Any questions
Please contact Shawn Roark at
Sroark@firehousemail.com
and I will get your questions answered and let you know

Thanks

Services for Earl

2009-01-29T19:32:00.000-02:00

Funeral Arrangements for Sgt. Morphew

Friday:

Fire personnel are requested to meet at the Chilhowie Fire Department at 11:00 a.m. to coordinate the casket honor guard. Duties will be shared between the Chilhowie and Bristol departments.

Honor guard will begin at 12 noon and continue throughout the day until 8:00 p.m. at the Chilhowie United Methodist Church. The funeral service will commence at 8:00 p.m.

Saturday:

Personnel who will be attending the burial service are to meet at the Chilhowie Fire Department by 9:00 a.m. We will have some outside assistance however, personnel who can assist in maintaining coverage for the city would be appreciated. Contact Assistant Chief Estep if you are willing to stay in this capacity.

In Memory of Earl Morphew

2009-01-28T17:46:00.002-02:00

In Memory of Earl Morphew. Taken from us January 28, 2009.

Update!

2008-11-17T14:09:00.002-02:00

Yes I am still alive!

I have been busy including working on the cities fire department site. The new site has been turned into the city and is awaiting approval before it is uploaded onto the cities server!

I have not updated the site due to so much going on!

I hope to get Tommys retirement pictures up soon! If you have some send them to me!

We are in the middle of a major changes in the fire department. I am excited about the announcement of the new Asst. Chief today! When I hear who it is I will post it!

The city also has posted the Chief position on the city site. It will be filled after the first of the year!

Email me if you want something posted

Stay safe the Winter is here

Roark

Fruit Pizza For Everyone

2008-07-18T00:16:00.001-02:00

Tommy and Deb have tied the knot!!!!!!!!!!!!!

They Exchanged Vows tonight at Eastern Little League

Pics as soon as I get them

Last seen they were rounding third and headed for home!!!!

Congrats Capt and Deb!!!

Ret. Lt Meade on his way to Iraq

2008-07-14T15:12:00.002-02:00

Spoke with Kemper Yesterday and he was getting ready to get on the plane to Iraq. He said he would send some pics and get us updated!

Stay Safe Lt.

He said he should be there tonight around 1800 or so!

Rare Workout video

2008-06-03T18:13:00.002-02:00

We found hidden video of B shift Station 3 working out!!!!!

Just Kidding enjoy the video

Senate Guarantees Responders Right to Unions

2008-05-13T21:29:00.001-02:00

Here is the article!

In Loving Memory

2008-04-21T01:41:00.002-02:00

Chad you will be missed

I 81 Explosion video

2008-04-16T01:35:00.002-02:00

Here is the Dash cam from VSP!

If I get the other videos I will get them posted!

STAY SAFE!

Roark

Top Gun Training

2008-04-03T22:35:00.003-02:00

Red Baron Scott will be conducting Top Gun training this coming weekend!

Students need to bring with them a Gas Card and a Map to the Airport!

The class will concentrate on how to place a small aircraft on runway I-81 South during Rush hour!!!

Enjoy the Pics and Video

Here is a link to the Video

CNN.com Video

Promotions

2008-03-25T20:20:00.002-02:00

Congrats to Capts. Cross, Newton, and Castle for their recent promotion!

Well Done Guys!

Here is the Press Release

Bristol Tennessee Fire Department Appoints Captains
March 18, 2008

Bristol Tennessee Fire Chief, Bob Barnes, announced the promotion to the rank of Fire Captain of three fire department veterans. Lieutenants Kevin Cross, Kenneth Newton, and Tommy Castle will assume the rank of captain effective March 17; the three captains have 69 years of combined service with the Bristol Tennessee Fire Department.

Introducing the rank of captain into the fire departments' command structure was approved by City Manager, Jeff Broughton in February. The Fire Captains will serve as second in command of a shift and report directly to the shift commander, who holds the rank of Battalion Chief. "The new positions enhance our rank structure, provide greater on scene management capabilities, and establish a direct and distinct liaison between emergency operations and emergency command," said Chief Barnes. The three captains will also have an expanded role in daily operations and administrative duties, in addition to greater responsibility during emergency responses.

It is Good to See BTFD moving in such a positive way!

HTR Team Responds to Big Stone Gap Virginia

2008-03-05T15:37:00.002-02:00

Tuesday March 4th the Bristol Regional HTR Team responded to Big Stone Gap Virginia for reports of Collapsed Structures.

The only information I have is from BristolNews.com

If you responded and have pics send them in!

Also How did the response go?

This is the first time the HTR team has been deployed and the second time this year we have been alerted (Central Tennessee Tornado's)

Thanks for the information!

Roark

Shooting At Edgemont Towers

2008-02-28T13:48:00.002-02:00

Yesterday there was a shoothing at Edgemont Towers

I did not run the call but I was at work!

Here is the link from BristolNews.com

This link also has the press conferences and news reports

I know that one was transported from the scene

And for the ones that wanted the story posted yesterday.....

I was at work and did not have my laptop with me!

If anyone would like to help me with the site please contact me and I would love the help!

Whats up!

2008-02-25T16:53:00.002-02:00

Does anyone have any ideas they would like to see posted here on the site?

I have not gotten any ideas or pics or stories in a while!!!

Something has to be going on!

I know Bristol Tennessee "B" shift has a you tube video Here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xPXgrYc7jt0

Anyway send your ideas and we will get them posted!

Roark

Tower 3 I mean Tower 1 runs first Fire Response

2008-02-19T21:28:00.002-02:00

Today Quint 1 went to the shop for maintance and the Tower stepped in and took up the slack!

Here is the first Fire Response of its Career (Stant Hall Fire Alarm!)

Tower 3 Just ran its first fire of its career (A dumpster in Johnson Court)

As of 1830 this is the Towers 5th Response of the day!

Enjoy the Pics

Roark

LODD report and VSP Trooper Chapman

2008-02-07T13:34:00.000-02:00

Last week Prince William County released the LODD report from the April 16, 2007 line of duty death of Tech. Kyle Wilson.

If you have not read it DO!!
Here is the Link
http://www.pwcgov.org/default.aspx?topic=040026000110004566
(you will have to cut and paste sorry having a problem with the hyper link)

PW county came out with a ton of reccomendations! Wonder how many the will follow up with!

In other Local news

A Smyth County Virginia State police Trooper (Chapman) was in his Marked police car with blue lights activated last Friday night when a STUPID DRUNK hit the back of his car and in turn causing Life threating injuries to the Trooper!

The Guy who hit him is BARRY MARSHALL from Abingdon. Well this piece of crap bonded out of jail and guess what got drunk again and got caught again Sunday night! This time his drunk Girlfriend was driving!

What makes me mad is that here is a young well respected Trooper doing his job and then comes a long a piece of crap drunk who almost takes his life and most likley ended his career! Instead of having a fund raiser, Trooper Chapman and his family should be awarded the next lottery jackpot...cancel the drawing and give him the money! Then in turn the state in his behalf should sue this piece of crap for all they can get! If he had insurance sue them too!

I know that the benefit supper is in Marion and here is the information!

There will be a benefit fund raising dinner for

Trooper Kris Chapman

on Saturday February 16, 2008

From

11:00 am to 6:00 pm

Marion Life Saving Crew Building

BBQ Plate Dinners

$6.00

If anyone would like to donate baked goodies/deserts please contact us and we will make arrangements to pick them up.

This will be a wonderful opportunity to support him & his family!

Hope to see you there!

Contacts:

Trooper Jeff Jones 1134

Trooper Rex Carter 632

1.800-542-8716

Officer April Morgan 519

783-8145/783-7204/706-1951

Just remember POLICE,FIRE, and EMS are one Family we may not like each other from time to time but, if you can go and support Trooper Chapman!

House Fire On Norway

2008-01-30T01:42:00.000-02:00

Units found heavy smoke coming from the house on arrival

The fire was in the basement with extension to the upper floors!

Units operating on the scene E3,E2,E51,Q1,Response 1, Chief 2, and Chief 33

Pictures from David Crigger Bristol Herald Courier

A shift responded to a house fire in the 1800 block of Norway

New Trucks

2008-01-30T01:37:00.000-02:00

Here are a few pictures of the new trucks!!
The Tower will be here next Wed.
The Engine will be a few more weeks!
Thanks to R. Anderson for the pictures!!!

MVC

2008-01-23T13:06:00.000-02:00

Yesterday a wreck claimed the life of a teenager inside the city. It seems that most of the serious crashes we run are on the interstate but this crash was in the middle of the city! Responding Quint 1 Engine 2. According to the news reports there must have been some extricating of one of the patients.

Remember to slow down when the weather is bad!!! In your Personal car and for sure in the fire truck!

Here is the story from BristolNews.com

Promotions and Pics of Tipton Construction Fire

2008-01-06T15:10:00.000-02:00

Congratulations to Lt. Nash, Sgt. Wise, 1st Sgt. Witcher, and Sr. FF Quillen for your recent promotions!!!!!

Here are a couple of Pics from the Tipton Construction Fire on Dec. 22

Thanks to Lloyd Autin for his pictures!

I don't have much info on this fire tell us about it in the comment area!!

Thanks for the submission!

Also the pictures were featured on VaFireNews.com

Leather Forever!!!!!

2008-01-05T12:47:00.000-02:00

Rookie in the News!!!

2008-01-04T02:21:00.000-02:00

Photo by Andre Teague/Bristol Herald Courier

Well Janet is the newest rookie in Bristol Virginia Fire Department!

Here is the article in the Bristol Herald Courier

On a serious note WELCOME JANET!

When Janet was hired at BTFD I was on shift with her and I was with her on one of her first fires!

I feel sure she will make us all proud!

New Years resolution!

2008-01-02T14:47:00.000-02:00

Happy New Year!

Now for the resolution of the year....

I plan to keep the site updated more!!!

Over the past several months, I personally have been very busy with school, a newborn, and completing the adjunct instructor process. The only way to keep from going crazy was to neglect something and the website had to take a backseat!

Anyway, I am back and alot has been going on!

1st Lt Shumate has retired as of January 1st!
Congrats Dan and you will be missed! (Dan was my Lt for a year at E2 and I really enjoyed working with him)

We have hired our first female Janet Evans started Dec. 31 WELCOME JANET!!!

Several working fires on both sides of town does anyone have any pictures????

Anyway, I need help... If you have an idea or pictures send them in here is my email
Sroark@firehousemail.com

May you and yours have a happy new year!

Roark

Even the little things......

2007-11-28T01:13:00.000-02:00

Most of you all know my little brother Brandon, well he and his company received a commendation from the public safety board in South Bend.

Here is the link!

Brandon would say this is nothing...... BUT it is something and it is great to see The SBFD Admin recognize these guys for a job well done!

By the way these simple but effective awards are free.

Little Bro.........Big Brother is Proud of you

also Check out the South Bend fire site here

Luck

2007-11-15T04:04:00.000-02:00

I was wondering what to post since it has been almost a month since the last post!

Well what better way then to explain LUCK!

There are 3 kinds of luck in life

1. Good Luck
2. Bad luck
3. Roark Luck

Here is the example:

Good Luck

Three weeks ago my wife deliver a healthy little Girl Hayden Barrett Roark!

She is already so sweet and I can't tell you how much I love my Girls!

Hannah is becoming quite the big Sister!

Bad Luck

Hayden had not gotten back to birth weight after her 1 week check-up
(everything is fine she is WAY past birth weight now!!!!!)

ROARK LUCK

At church the week after Hayden came my wife starts to feel bad
that afternoon a 102 Fever!!!!!!

Monday morning my wife is complaining of not feeling well again!
(when my wife complains you should take it very seriously)

I took her temp 103 I did not like this!!!

Off to the Doc we go......

We were seen right-a-way and she had blood taken and all of the labs done.....NOTHING

The Doc had to send off for some more test so home we came!

Tuesday morning the fever was 104.5!!!!!!

It's not getting any better and my wife is really not feeling well

LONG STORY SHORT....

ECOLI that's right ECOLI!

So if you were wondering were we have been now you know!

Well that could be bad luck I guess but...

Hannah had the croup
Hayden is crying and guess what

My senior research project is DUE!!!!!!

That my friends is ROARK LUCK!!!!!

Anyway We are finally getting back into the swing of things around here at the house!

Melissa is feeling so much better

Hannah is doing better and Hayden slept 5 hours last night!!!!!!!

LIFE IS GOOD!

Here is the family Pre-Ecoli

and the Little ones!

Growth and FIre Service

2007-10-18T11:21:00.000-02:00

This week the Bristol Newspaper has been featuring the Exit 7 growth. On Tuesday they did an article on how the fire and police departments worked so well together. Well here is the article posted today

Bristolnews.com

Well here is a video from you tube from the Iaff on 1710 (I saw it on Roanokefire.com).

County Has two firefighters working each day and City has three working each day. The next company is Quint 1 and Engine 2 10 mins away........

Tell us what you think?

Promotions and Moves!!!

2007-09-21T00:37:00.000-02:00

Well Congrats to FF Gouge and Scott for being promoted to SGT. Congrats to Sgt McCracken for being promoted to Lt!

Job well done.

Anyone know of the moves that are to follow????

Does anyone know of the promotions on the Tennessee side?

Race Week!

2007-08-22T00:19:00.000-02:00

once again it is Race week in Bristol...

For those who don't know that much about Bristol, our Year round population is approx. 45,000 (both Virginia and Tennessee Sides). This week the population increases to over 200,000!!!!

We will keep the site updated throughout the week!

If you have info or pics from the week send them in and We will get them posted!

Back in Service!

2007-08-20T12:30:00.000-02:00

Well it has been a while since I have posted anything and the reason is simple ..... A hard drive failure!!!!!

A special thanks to IT Kinex for fixing the problem for me!!!

If you have any computer...networking needs contact me and I can get you hooked up with this AWESOME business!!

Just for the record this business is Firefighter owned!

If anyone has any thing they want to be posted let me know and we will see what we can do!!

Firefighters night at White Sox Game!

2007-08-13T20:58:00.000-02:00

Wednesday night August 15th is Firefighter night at the Bristol White Sox Game

All firefighters with proper ID will get in Free

Come out and Support our Minor League Baseball Team

6th Fire in 7 Shifts for Va-Tn "C" Shifts

2007-07-25T00:44:00.000-02:00

Well "C" Shift worked again Yesterday and Yes another Working Fire

This fire was in the 1200 Block of Windsor Ave!

Here is the Link from www.BristolNews.com

Operating on the Scene were Tennessee: Engines 21,19,51 Quint 5 Chief 33
Virginia Engine 2, Quint 1 and Response 1

If anyone has pics of the fire please email them to me at Sroark@firehousemail.com and I will post them!!!

Stay safe

Roark

New Batt. Chiefs

2007-07-20T01:19:00.000-02:00

This is the release from Bristol Tennessee

Bristol Tennessee Battalion Chief Appointments Announced

The City of Bristol Tennessee today announced the promotion of two veteran members of the Fire Department to the position of Battalion Chief.

Lieutenant Gerald R. Thompson and Lieutenant Dwayne D. Honaker earned their promotions through a comprehensive review process designed to gauge fire service knowledge, as well as, management and leadership qualities. The Battalion Chief serves as the commander of all shift operations and emergency scene management.

Gerald Thompson is a 32-year veteran of the Fire Department serving as a Lieutenant since 1986. Thompson has extensive experience in all aspects of fire service and holds numerous certifications at the state and national level. Thompson is a 1970 graduate of Abingdon High School.

“Our department is changing daily and I am proud to have the opportunity to
serve in a greater capacity in helping to bring about those changes. Chief
Barnes is moving the department in a positive direction and I appreciate his
confidence in me,” said Thompson.

Dwayne Honaker has served as an officer in the Fire Department since 2003, and earned the rank of Lieutenant in 2006. Honaker is an 11-year veteran of the Fire Department who also has extensive training and holds both state level and national level certifications. Honaker is a 1995 graduate of Sullivan East High School.

Honaker said he is honored to be chosen as a Battalion Chief and stated “every candidate who competed for the two Battalion Chief positions was extremely qualified and capable of doing an excellent job. I know it must have been a very difficult decision for Chief Barnes when there are so many outstanding people from which to choose.”

In announcing the promotions, Fire Chief Bob Barnes stated, “Both Gerald and Dwayne are extremely capable of succeeding as Battalion Chiefs, and I am sure they will represent our department and the City of Bristol in a most professional manner. I look forward to working with them as they assume new and greater responsibilities, and I know they will continue to be outstanding leaders in our department.”

Battalion Chief Thompson and Battalion Chief Honaker will assume their new roles on July. 9th.

Congrats to both on their promotions!!!!!

Another fire for "C" Shift

2007-07-20T01:11:00.000-02:00

BTFD Engines 21,51,19,Quint 5 and Virgina Engine 2 responded to Hwy 11 w for an hotel fire here is the link from www.bristolnews.com

Close Call

2007-07-09T00:19:00.000-02:00

Early Friday morning around 0100 Quint 1 was dispatched to an EMS call. If you know anything about Quint 1 this not an unusual event. This company is famous for late night EMS runs! As the company left the station a right turn was made and then a left onto Scott St. Soon after the company made the turn onto Scott St the Medic on the ambulance told the Quint to Cancel! The Quint stopped the response and was going to make the trip around the block back to the station. Coming upon Moore St the company was shocked to see a car blow past the stop sign at Moore and Scott St. This car was the one that crashed onto Moore st Killing the driver.

So what make this a close call......

The Quint was responding and when the Medic made the call for the Quint to cancel. The response was cancelled and the truck was slowed down! Had this not occurred the Quint could have been a sitting duck to the car that blew the stop sign!

I spoke to the driver of the Quint and he told me if they had been 3 to 5 seconds quicker they would have been hit. Reading the news reports that car was traveling at a high rate of speed. If they would have been hit...it could have been very bad.

Not taking away from the your lady that was killed but I am very thankful that OUR BROTHERS were not killed or injured by someones stupid decision!

For the Medic that canceled the Quint THANKS!

I suggest that you talk to the guys that were in the truck for the whole story!

On another note..

What a week Bristol Va "C" shift had!
4 Working Structure Fires. The strange thing was on Monday the first fire came in and less than 1 hour after that fire the other one came in.

On Friday the same thing. We had the first fire and it was knocked down and then we were sent to another working fire while overhaul was taking place on the first fire.

Thanks to Tennessee Fire for all of the help on the fires!

Roark

Bristol Firefighters Speak about Charleston

2007-06-20T23:17:00.000-02:00

From Bristolnews.com here is the link to the article!
Click Here

I like all of the comments well done guys!

Also Remember the moment of slience Fri. Morning at 0900!

Take care

Roark

"The Trip"!!!!

2007-06-20T00:50:00.000-02:00

Well for those who know Brandon "My Little Brother" He tied the knot this past weekend!

While up there for the visit I met several people and I found out that being in the IAFF has some cool benefits!

On the way to the game at Wrigley I saw a guy holding a sign "Parking" So I yelled at him and he told me $20 to park! If you have ever been to Wrigley you will know that this is a great deal so I took it! As I parked the guy yelled back at me "You a Fireman?" I said "YES" He said back in here..... Well long story short it was his garage he closed the door and gave me his phone number and said to call when I was ready to leave! After the game we walked around for awhile then I called him and there he was to let us out! He then gave me directions to little Italy where we ate the greatest Chicago style Pizza in the World! I don't remember his name but he was assigned to an Engine Company near Wrigley! He told me which company but I forgot!

Anyway the next day we went to Notre Dame in South Bend In. We were taking Pics of Touchdown Jesus when this guy on a bike tells us I got 5 Minutes come on in......My first thought was I am not crawling under a fence! This guy goes to the gate and unlocks it and lets us in.....Come to find out he is a brother of a Firefighter in South Bend that works with my Brother!

Here are some pics for you to enjoy!

Also I just found out about the Brothers in Charleston I will post something on that tragedy tomorrow!

Take care

Roark

Wrigley Field!

2007-06-15T13:33:00.000-02:00

Yesterday I got to catch a game at Wrigley Field!

I will post pics soon!

Today I am off to see TOUCHDOWN JESUS

Anderson St Fire

2007-06-09T16:52:00.000-02:00

On the evening of June 2, 2007, E21,51,19,R25,23,C33 B-Shift Were dispatched to a structure fire. The first due engine reported flames and smoke coming from the A-side second floor and possible entrapment of two victims. BTFD SST personnel and Virginia E2, Quint 1, and Response 1 was called for assistance. The structure was entered and an initial search was performed finding no one inside. Once other units arrived on the scene, the fire was attacked and under control in a short amount of time. The house was said to be over 100 years old and was undergoing renovations into apartments. Only two of those apartments were occupied at the time. Both FD's worked well together to knock down the fire and save much of the structure. Kudos on being able to work with such great guys in neighboring cities. All together, there were approximately 30 fire personnel on scene! There was only one injury reported and that firefighter was treated at BRMC ER and released. As of this time, the fire is still under investigation.

Many thanks goes out to Lloyd Autin for the great pics of the fire!

Submitted by FF/P Joy Autin

Motorcycle Ride!

2007-06-07T17:48:00.000-02:00

There will be a Ride to Maggie Valley NC. to the Wheels Thru Time Museum on Monday June 25th. (Rain Makeup will be June 27th).

The ride will begin at Bristol Va. Fire station 2 at 0900 Sharp!

The Route is being planned now.

Contact Randy Thomas Station 2A for information.

All people and bikes are welcome

New Website!

2007-06-03T13:58:00.000-02:00

Here is a new website to check out!
www.savingourown.com

This is a cool site featuring FAST...RIT...and Safety and survival tips

Sorry for the delay in not posting but to be honest Time is short and I have been covered up doing other things

It would help me out if you would send in Info to be posted!

Check out this site and thanks for the support!

Roark

New Website!

2007-05-18T12:03:00.000-02:00

Goodson-Kinderhook Fire Department has started a new web site! Check them out at
www.GKFire.org

Also do not forget about www.Vafirenews.com

Vafirenews has added a new training section that has a lot of good ideas!

If anyone knows of any cool sites they would like to see in the links please send them in to me

Thanks
Roark

Whats going on!

2007-05-17T15:01:00.000-02:00

First of all sorry for the delay in posting!

We have a lot going on here in Bristol For example:

1. Our new training building is almost done!!! It looks great!
2. "T" Shirts !!!!!!!! since we have changed to "T" shirts I have actually been called a firefighter by the public (I have not been called a police officer since we have gone to "T" Shirts!) How about you all?
3. The new trucks They are under construction and we can expect them I think in December!
4. Pay Raise in the budget! (I know we will see!)
5. How about ole Raplh Chuck ask me about this one if you don't know!
6. In the paper yesterday Chiefs Ford and Barnes announced that they were working on an automatic aid agreement that would have both sides of town automatically dispatched to to BRMC, Downtown, and all City Schools! This can only be a win win for both sides of town!

Anyway just wanted to get something up since it had been a while, this summer I will do better getting stuff up on the site!

Also if you have anything or want anything on the site send it in and I will put it on here

Take care

Roark

2007-04-17T13:52:00.000-02:00

LODD - Kyle R. Wilson, a Career Firefighter with Prince William County

Pray for Tech

2007-04-17T13:45:00.000-02:00

Bad day for Virginia

2007-04-16T23:35:00.000-02:00

As everyone knows by now the horrific news coming from Virginia Tech. I have been to Tech many many times, and never once have I had a bad experience there. All of the fun times at sporting events and all of the many fun times when I was hanging out with my friends who went to school there.

Today I cannot explain how bad it hurts for all of the young men and women who go to school there and for the staff that works there. My thoughts and prayers go out to all of the Virginia Tech Family.

In other sad news Prince William County Fire Department had a LODD. This morning Firefighter Kyle Wilson died while fighting a fire in a 2 1/2 story house.

This was Prince William's first LODD.

Here is the link From VaFirenews.com

PW county has set up an online condolence for FF Wilson Here if you want to leave a comment

I ask that you pray for our Bretheren in Prince William County and for this very hard time in the Commonwealth.

Pa. Chief hailed as hero

2007-04-12T19:22:00.000-02:00

I was reading and watching an article on firehouse.com and I had some serious concerns about this "Heroic" Move the chief made!

Anyway I do not want to form opinions but I ask that you go to this link and read and watch the footage and give your feedback!

Here is the skinny A major working fire in a bowstring constructed bowling alley and the chief jump in a ladder tower and moved it ......outriggers out......ladder up with firefighters in the bucket......

Watch the raw footage and read the article

Also you can leave the anonymous comments!

related Link

Bristol Va. Firefighters respond to a House Fire

2007-04-12T11:17:00.000-02:00

At 1400 on Wednesday afternoon Engine 3 was dispatched to Highland Rd for reported power lines across the road. As E3 entered the neighborhood Dispatch advised a house was on fire. E3 being a couple of block away reported seeing heavy smoke in the area. On arrival E3 reported smoke and fire visible from side 2 of a single family ranch style home. E3 staff went to work as other companies were dispatched. E3 Attacked the fire from the exterior to achieve a quick knockdown. Entry was made into the structure to conduct a primary search. After a search of the interior came back negative E3 staff proceeded to check for extension in the attic. E2 staff began roof ventilation for attack crews in the attic Quint 1 staff began breaching the outside wall to begin overhaul.
The fore was under control and extinguished within minutes.

Operating on the scene was Bristol Virginia E2, E3, Q1, Washington County E102, Response 1 (Shift commander), 2 Administrative Chiefs, and Bristol’s Fire Marshal.

The reported cause of this fire was a tree limb was cut and it fell into a power line and in turn causing the fire!

No injuries was reported to civilians or suppression personnel

Pictures will be added later when I get them!

Bristol Area Firefighters Golf Tournment!

2007-04-06T20:10:00.000-02:00

The Golf Outing will be May the 8th at Clear Creek Golf Club in Bristol, Va.

I will post more as I get all of the info!

Roark

Featured Website!

2007-04-02T23:39:00.000-02:00

BristolFirefighters.com is the featured website on Va Fire News this month!

Also we were the first to add the Virginia Fire News Ticker to our website!

It is located to the Right on near the links! Check it out!

We have also added a guest book for everyone to sign!

If anyone know of any cool and or useful websites we could add to the links email them to me!

Thanks for every ones help and interest in the site!

Roark!

Arrest Made in Arson Fires!

2007-04-01T17:31:00.000-02:00

Arrest made in Jones Manor Fires.

One subject has been arrested and placed in jail without bond!

Jones Manor in Bristol off of Mary St. had a rash of fires within a few days earlier in the month. Investigators have been working very hard on these fires and they gained enough evidence to charge a subject!

More info as it becomes available

2007-03-25T14:38:00.000-02:00

Picture from South Bend Tribune.com

Cool Picture from South Bend In. Fire Department!

This picture was taking after a warehouse fire. The guys in the picture just realized that there was a fatality in this fire! Guess where they found the body. This picture was taken from the South Bend Tribune.com

Thanks to Brandon for the info on the pic.

Brandon is currently in the academy in South Bend and should graduate at the end of May or First of June!

From what he was telling me these guys had a very bad week

One brother is still in the hospital after going down on a different fire I think Brandon told me a cardiac related problem (Don't quote me on that!) I expect Brandon will keep me informed!

Brandon also ask for prayer for this brother.

St Baldricks

2007-03-25T01:55:00.000-02:00

Several of Bristol Virginia's Bravest joined Some of Johnson City Tennessee's Bravest to raise money for childhood cancer research by shaving there heads! Here is some pics for you to enjoy.

For the guys who shaved their heads .......... Way to go you guys are Hero's!!!!!!!!!!!!

Combined the two groups raised $8500

I understand there may a competition brewing for next year!!!!!!

Sounds great maybe we can double the amount raised next year!!!!!!

Check out www.Stbaldricks.org for more info!!!!

Comments

2007-03-25T01:49:00.000-02:00

You do not have to sign in to comment,

But you do have to have the comment approved before it is posted!

Thanks and if the comments are positive or even useful I will post them but is they are not I will not post them.

Thanks for all of the support for the site.

Also sorry for the delay in posting anything I have about a million things to get up on the site.

I will get them up after race weekend

A couple of things up coming

Structure Fires on Cardinal lane and Spring st

Thanks for all of the info and I will get them up

Race Weekend!!

2007-03-25T01:29:00.000-02:00

Thanks to Loyd Autin for the Pics

Well as most of you all know the world of Racing has its eye's focused on Bristol this weekend.

This is when our little town Combined (Virginia and Tennessee) has a normal population of 45,000 grows to a population of around 200,000. We don't feel much of the impact on the Virginia side but we do experience the traffic! Now the area around the speedway that is a different story.....This weekend the Staff of Bristol Tn Fire Department earns there money.

Lets make a little example:

Roanoke Virginia Fire has 14 stations for a population of around 100,000!

So using that example for a population of 200,000 you could estimate 20 stations or so.

Bristol Virginia and Bristol Tennessee = 7 stations!!!!!!!!!!!!

Now the Speedway is located in Tennessee station #4's First due and the majority of our "guests" for the weekend are in Station 4's area!!!

4's first due has a population of 160,000 this weekend!!!!!

Good luck guys and ladies the weekend is all but over!!!!

The good news is I don't think race fans drink much, do they?

Anyway here is a couple of pictures of a job Friday Night

MVA with ejection on Scene Quint 5 , Engine 53, BMS EMS unit, Sullivan County EMS.

City appoints new fire chief

2007-03-10T12:22:00.000-02:00

Pic From Brstolnews.com

Here is the Article From Bristolnews.com

Congratulations Chief Barnes

Georgia St. House Fire

2007-03-07T20:37:00.000-02:00

Shortly after 0400 hours this morning, BTFD was toned out to a report of a structure fire. Car 33, Rescue 25, and Engines 51, 19 and 21 responded. On the arrival of the first in units, heavy fire and smoke was visible from the B side of the structure, quickly spreading to the attic and coming out the eaves. The fire had self-vented out of windows from the room of origin on the left A side and the B side of the structure and had burned a power line in two causing an electrical hazard around the structure. A quick knock-down was made using two 1 3/4 inch handlines. The occupant of the home was out on arrival and had ran next door to a BVFD Firefighters house to call for help. (I also want to express the importance of smoke detectors in the home, unfortunately, this home had none, but the end result was that the occupant heard the glass breaking and with quick thinking, was able to exit without injury). The fire was able to be contained to the room of origin, but there was heat and smoke damage to the rest of the structure.

GREAT KNOCKDOWN B Shift and.....

FF/EMT-P Joy Autin

Mary St House Fire!

2007-03-07T20:24:00.000-02:00

Pics by Capt. J.C. Bolling
Q-1, Response 1, E-2, E-3, Rescue 3 were dispatched just after 5 p.m. on March 3, 2007 to a report of an unknown type fire at 317 Mary St. As the units began the response they were advised by dispatch that this was a structure fire with flames showing. Response 1 arrived at the scene and reported a residential structure with heavy flames visible and through the roof.
Q-1 performed an initial primary search of the structure and began suppression operations on the interior first floor. E-2 provided a 5” hydrant line and backed up the interior crew. E-3 arrived on scene and provided exposure control on the D side of the structure due to high winds pushing the fire in the fully involved second floor toward the exposure.
Knockdown was achieved within 30 minutes on arrival and overhaul continued from safe vantage points due to a pancake collapse in the center of the structure with lean-to type collapses in other areas of the building.
Crews remained on the scene for approximately 4 hours and cleared shortly before 9:30 p.m.
No damage was reported or found with the exposures on sides B & D which were approximately 15- 20 feet from the involved building.

Structure Fire on The Tennessee Side

2007-03-02T02:37:00.000-02:00

On Wednesday, Feb. 28 2007 at approximately 500 pm btfd engines 51 21 19 quint 5 rescues 23 and 25 and car 33 responded to beechwood and georgia ave for a report of a structural fire. Upon arrival companies found smoke and fire visible from the d side of the building. Engine 19 and rescue 25 crew stretched a line and made a rapid attack. The next in companies preformed a search of the structure. The fire was quickly extinguished and held to the room of origin. A good job was done by all.

Submitted by Michael Whiteaker

As I get more I will post

MVA on I-81

2007-03-01T01:40:00.000-02:00

E2 A Shift responded to I 81 for car overturned on arrival occupant still in the car E2 staff cribbed and extricated the subject in the car.

Photos courtesy of Sgt. Morphew

Keeping the Site Professional

2007-02-21T16:19:00.000-02:00

Well I hate to but I must do it Again! It is time for a Rant!

I was reading another Blog the other day and I begin to think!!!!

What was I thinking, you are wondering.......... Well here it goes

It is OK to disagree with each other but I feel that when you disagree with something or someone stand behind what you think........

The "Blog" also know as WWW.BristolFirefighters.com was designed to showcase the Bravest from Bristol. Well just like babysitting if you don't watch what you are doing someone is going to cross the line and do something they should not. Well as much as I have enjoyed the comments I must make a suggestion and implement a plan!

Here is my plan:
1. This will NOT be a rumor mill! I am not trying to suck up or any of that I am only trying to showcase the Departments! So I am making it mandatory to put your name to place a post......So, you have 2 options. Option 1 set up a user name aka "Truckie" or "leatherforever" and you can even use your name aka "Roark"! It is free and Easy!!!

Option 2..... I can either approve or disapprove of your post before it is placed on the web. I don't like this and I don't want to have to do this!

2.Also, I am going to open the site up to Washington County Fire and Rescue. Hopefully after I make a few contacts I can also add all of the Departments in the Bristol Area (ex. Goodson Kinderhook, Sullivan East, and Avoca!)

I plan to do this because. well frankly WE NEED EACH OTHER!!! and I want to!

This site has been fun, and I really don't mind updating it!

As you can tell we are getting hits from all around the world! I don't know who is commenting and nor do I care, I welcome all comments. I just want people to tell who they are! Be proud of your comments!

Anyway.... I do not agree with all that is going on....Heck I don't agree with much of anything! But I sign my name to everything on this post.

and no I am not trying to suck up or anything! I just want this to be fair, and to keep OUR site fun and professional!

So sign in and fun let us know what you think heck make fun of me I can take it!!!!!

Thanks for you support with this site and HAVE FUN but Be safe!!!!!!!!!

ROARK!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Fire on Penn. Ave

2007-02-14T17:48:00.000-02:00

Bristol Tennessee Firefighters battled a house fire this morning in the 100 Block of Pennsylvania Ave!

E-51,E-21,E-19,Quint 5 and, Rescue 23 and 25, Chief 33 on scene!

Here are a few pics!

As I get more info I will post it on this fire!

House Fire on Moore St!

2007-02-10T13:29:00.000-02:00

Again last night Q1 E2 E3 and Response 1 were dispached to another working fire! On arrival we found heavy Smoke and Fire Conditions! Quint staff made an aggressive knockdown which saved the house! We were hampered due to very cold temps but we got the job done! I will post more also later and when I get Pics (which were taken after the fire!) Anyway have a great weekend also watch www.vafirenews.com for more info on the fire!

Basketball Game

2007-02-10T13:25:00.000-02:00

last night Bristol Va. Police defeated Bristol Tn. Police in the Hero's basketball Game!

Also Bristol Virginia Firefighters defeated Bristol Tennessee Firefighters!

I do not have any pics or any details

I was not there and do not have any details yet!

I will update with pics and more info as I get it!

If you have any Info or PICS!!! email me with it please

Hero's Basketball Games Tomorrow Night

2007-02-08T14:56:00.000-02:00

Tomorrow Night At Viking Hall Civic Center at 630 The Finest from Bristol Virginia will be playing the Finest from Bristol Tennessee and just after the completion of that game Bristol Virginia's Bravest will be playing Bristol Tennessee Bravest!

Last year both games went to Bristol Virginia but it was a very close game and this years game should be just as close and just as much fun!

Good Luck to Both sides!

I will not be able to attend due to work and I also have class tomorrow night so if someone could email me pictures so I can post the information after the game

Tax Season Help!

2007-02-06T23:22:00.000-02:00

Attention all area Fire, EMS, and Police personnel:

As you well know it is Tax Season and I usually do not recommend a specific business but now I am!!!

You may or may not know Will Fritz and his Dad but they own a tax service and a really good one!

Here is a link to their business Fritz Tax Service check them out and If you go tell them you were referred by Bristol Firefighters.com and they will take care of you!!!

Take care and Good Luck with the taxes!

If anyone else knows of any emergency service friendly businesses let me know and we will feature them on the site!

House Fire on Russell St

2007-02-06T14:52:00.000-02:00

At 530 this Am Quint 1, E2, E3, and Response 1 (Command Vehicle) responded to a house on Russell St for smoke coming from a house. On arrival Response advised smoke coming from the roof area. Q1 staff made entry and made their way to the attic where smoldering blown in insulation was found. Q1 made a quick attack and the ceiling were pulled. After Overhaul operations were completed all units cleared. The Fire has displaced a family from their home.

No injuries to fire personnel or citizens.

I am sorry I did not get any pictures

Haz Mat response

2007-02-02T14:28:00.000-02:00

Here is the link to the Richlands Paper

This was a Haz Mat response last week

I dont have anymore pics the newspaper article explains it all

Take Care

Roark

Chief Vinson's Retirement Party

2007-01-31T20:11:00.000-02:00

On Tuesday, the City of Bristol, TN. hosted a retirement party for Chief Phil Vinson. The festivities were emceed by Bristol, TN. City Manager, Jeff Broughton.

In attendance were Chief Vinson's Family, Dignitaries from the City of Bristol TN, representatives from Bristol Va Fire Department, Bristol Life Saving Crew, Bristol TN Police Department, Bristol VA Police Department, Johnson City Fire Department, Kingsport Fire Department, Elizabethton Fire Department, Greenville Fire Department, Alcoa Fire Department, Maryville Fire Department and various members of all the Departments of the City of Bristol, TN.

Presentations were made to Chief Vinson for his long and dedicated service to the City of Bristol and the surrounding areas. The City presented a Clock to Chief Vinson, Utility Services (water department) presented a fire hydrant that had been in the city longer than Chief Vinson, Bristol Va Fire Department presented Chief Vinson with a plaque honoring his service and Peg Brown presented a poem "Ode to Vinson"

Each shift at BTFD presented the Chief with tokens of their appreciation.

A-Shift presented 2 rocking chairs to the Chief so he could "rock-on" in his retirement.

B-Shift presented the Chief with the Brass Fire pole from the Old 4th street Fire station. This pole was erected at BTFD Station 1 in honor of Chief Vinson Service.

C-Shift presented the Chief with a White Leather Fire Helmet with Gold Leaf Shield and a stand to place it on. The Chief was also presented a T-Shirt. If you ever worked for Chief Vinson, you will under stand the significance of that presenation.

This retirement party lasted for a few hours and was attended by at least 200 people.Chief Phil Vinson will be missed by all. He has helped shape the way for BTFD to prosper in the coming years.

See More Pics in the Flickr account on the side bar of the website

Good Luck Chief!

Submitted by:

Sgt. Tim Estes

House Fire on 6th St EXT

2007-01-31T11:48:00.001-02:00

Engines 51, 21, 19 Rescues 25 and 23 and Chief 33 Responded to a house fire on 6th st ext around 1030 Tuesday Morning. On arrival units found heavy smoke.

Here is the Link from BristolNews.com

The pic in the Article has Lt. Castle performing Rescue Breathing on a Kitten!

Remember we are to Protect Life and Property including Cats and Dogs!

Many Departments in the United States are now placing pet CPR equipment on Fire apparatus!

Also Yesterday was Chief Vinson's Retirement party and I understand that there were a lot of people there!

If anyone has pics and they want them on the site please email them to me!

Take Care

Roark

House Fire on 6th St EXT

2007-01-31T11:48:00.000-02:00

Chief Vinson's Last Day Tomorrow

2007-01-29T13:03:00.000-02:00

This is you last chance to post a message to Chief Vinson for his retirement!

Don't forget the Retirement Party Tomorrow at Tennessee Station 1 on Bluff City Hwy.

Also I will not be able to attend tomorrow so if someone would take pics and email them to me and I will get them on the web page!

Take Care

Roark

Information!

2007-01-26T01:44:00.000-02:00

Here is an article from firehouse.com on Bed Bugs that has infested a fire station!

Here is the link

Also the Haz-Mat Team is going to Tazewell Tomorrow with the Air and Light trailer!

As soon as I get more Information I will Post it on the Haz-Mat Call!

One Dead in Bristol Tenessee House Fire

2007-01-25T12:41:00.000-02:00

Around 0300 this morning Bristol Tennessee responded to a house fire, on arrival fire and heavy smoke were visible. One subject has died in the fire.

Here is the link from Bristol News

As I get more I will update

Free training!

2007-01-25T01:12:00.000-02:00

Today I watched a web cast from Firehouse.com. It was on Size up and Command operations. The cool thing was I watched it at home and it was free. The Instructors were from FDNY. I know what everyone is thinking "We don't do it like FDNY!" Your are 100% correct we don't do it like them.....but the web cast was geared to all departments. Volunteer, Career, Big and, small. They covered all areas of on scene size up and command operations. A new term that I learned was....Windshield Size-up. This means as you are driving around your first due go ahead and do windshield size-up's before you have an incident at the location.

Other points I gathered: If you are in Command, know who is there, Know where everyone is at on the fire ground, and know who is coming.

The instructors were:
Tom Richardson and Richard Blatus

I only got to watch 30 mins. of the web cast due to other obligations today, but I highly recommend that you sign up and watch these web casts, it will be well worth your time!

Take care and Stay Safe

Roark

WHY WE WEAR TURNOUT GEAR

2007-01-21T02:59:00.000-02:00

Engine 3 and Rescue 3 was dispatched at 01:54 hours on January 17, 2007 for a reported vehicle on its’ top in the creek in front of Pals Restaurant on Lee Highway. Just another MVA call for Engine 3 and Rescue 3.

On arrival at the scene the BVPD was already on scene and the lone occupant of the vehicle had self extricated and was talking with the police officers. Engine 3’s crew assessed the situation and determined that the vehicle had exited the bridge on Alexis Drive and had come to rest passenger side down in the creek and resting against the creek bank. It was also determined that we had some fuel in the creek mixed with oil. A request was made for Response 1 to deliver 5 absorbent booms to be placed downstream from the accident site. After the booms were placed Response 1 returned to Station 1 and members of Engine 3 stood by while the towing service began removal of the vehicle from the creek.

The vehicle was winched up the bank on its’ top and then left upside down near the edge of the parking lot while the tow driver repositioned the cables to roll the vehicle over onto its’ wheels. The recovery operation resumed while Engine 3 members maintained a safe distance from the operation. As the vehicle was winched up onto its’ front driver side corner to clear a small exit sign near the parking lot it came into contact with a flood light used to illuminate the sign at night. As the vehicle was lowered back to the ground there was a sudden, explosive ignition of the vehicle and its’ interior. Within a second the rear of the vehicle and the interior was engulfed in flames. Engine 3 began to fight the fire within a minute of ignition. A call was made by radio to dispatch Response 1 and Quint 1 immediately to back Engine 3 and provide foam due to the fuel fire. The fire was quickly contained and extinguished and Quint 1 was cancelled.

The lesson that is reinforced here is that we must maintain a safe zone of operations and wear the turnout gear that we are provided. Maintain an Incident Management System on all calls. A routine scene became an explosive scene in the blink of an eye. Always be aware of your surroundings. Officers, be aware of the scene and what your crew is doing. The crew should always be aware of what they are doing and their surroundings. And above all: Protect yourself with the gear and the equipment that is provided. Watch your brother or sister’s back on calls. And most importantly: Wear your turnout gear properly so everyone goes home!!!

Lt. Richard L. Thompson

Chief Phil Vinson To Retire January 31, 2007

2007-01-17T01:41:00.000-02:00

Chief Vinson Beside Ladder 3

After 42 years of service with the City of Bristol Tennessee Fire Department Chief Vinson is going to retire.

Chief Vinson began his career on April 23, 1965 as a Firefighter.

1972 Chief Vinson was promoted to Captain.

1977 Vinson was appointed the Chief of the Department.

He has served as Chief for 30 years.

This morning I had the privilege of sitting down with Chief Vinson to discuss his retirement. Chief had many stories to tell me and one thing was evident, he was very proud of his department!

When I ask Chief what were the biggest changes in the Fire Service during his career he stated that technology, safety, and training have changed the most.

Turnout gear, trucks, and computer technology specifically were the biggest changes.

In the past several years he has replaced the entire fleet of trucks with newer apparatus. He also spoke of the implementation of computers in all front line apparatus, equipped with mapping and hydrant information.

I also spoke with him about memorable fires in his career. He told me that he had seen thousands of fires but a few stuck out. The Christmas day Exide Fire, the 6th Street fire, and the most recent Thanksgiving Day fire at the former Clortrim casket plant. He also spoke of the Train station fire on the Virginia side of town. He showed me a picture of this fire with the famous Bristol Va/Tn sign on State Street in the foreground and the fire in the background. This was an impressive picture.

He also told me that when Ladder 3 was placed in service, its first fire was actually on the Virginia side of town at the Japanese Stake house on Commonwealth Ave.

A few other things about Chief Vinson that I found out are that he donated Engine 9 to the Fire Academy and now it is known as Vinson 1.

The most interesting fact that he told me was that according to the Tennessee records that he has been Fire Chief longer than any career Fire Chief in the State. He could remember a couple of volunteer Fire Chief’s that had 30 years service as Chief.

On a personal note, Chief Vinson was my first Career Chief that I worked for. Chief never had a bad thing to say and he was always friendly. I don’t think there is anyone out there who is more proud of his employees and I can’t think of anyone who works for him that is not proud of him.

Chief Vinson did tell me that he is still going to visit the different fire stations throughout the city to stay in touch. He also is still going to serve on the board for the Fire museum. He also hopes that they can get the 1949 Mack refurbished so it can be placed in the fire museum.

If you get the opportunity to go and talk to Chief Vinson before he retires, Do. It is not that often you get a first hand history lesson! Thanks again Chief and all the best in your retirement.

Please use the comment area to leave your message for Chief Vinson. I will print them out and give them to him in the next couple of weeks.

New Link!

2007-01-12T13:35:00.000-02:00

Concord New Hampshire Battalion 3 has a new Blog. Former Bristol Firefighter Bickers is the "Webmaster". The blog has just started and It looks great!

Here is the link to Concord Blog!

Remember if you want me to post anything or you have a link please email it to me!

Whats been going on!

2007-01-10T12:45:00.000-02:00

Sorry for the delay in posting anything!

At shift change yesterday I learned that "B" shift had a working fire in Engine 3's First due area on Monday night. I got the word that the fire went well a quick knock down was made, but that is all the info I have. I do not have any pics there was no media coverage. So, if you have info let us know! Yesterday, Firefighter Taylor did a interview with WJHL on the Nuke stuff coming down the interstate next year. If they post this interview on the web I will post the link!
We had the first snow of the year yesterday....so we watch traffic back up on I-81 several times yesterday!

Anyway I am going to try to get caught up with Chief Phil Vinson and try to get an interview with him hopefully we can get this setup before he retires.

Remember if anyone wants to see something or wants to post anything let me know!

Also, I am going to be working on a link page.....if you have a favorite web site let me know!

Email me

Be careful

Roark

news for Today Jan. 4, 2007

2007-01-04T22:34:00.000-02:00

First of all Welcome to Firefighter Carrier and his first day on the job.

Second we have a couple of events coming up that a couple of our Brothers are getting together!

Taylor is wanting to get together and go to Winterplace and go Snow Tubing again this year.....The tentative date is Feb. 4 (If it ever snows or turns cold). We would meet in Wytheville and then on to West Va. Check here for prices Winterplace . Anyone wanting to go please contact FF Taylor Station 1 C. If we get enough we could possibly get a group rate. This is a Family event so everyone is invited!

And Quillen is wanting to get together and play paintball. I will get more information posted soon on this trip!

Happy New Year!!

2007-01-02T01:44:00.000-02:00

Once again I have been out of town! Well I was supposed to leave on Thursday to go to Georgia to visit family but a little bug visited my house.......it was the virus that acts like the flu. My wife got it on Tuesday, My daughter got it on Tuesday night, and I got it Wednesday. We all were feeling better on Saturday so we left for Georgia and came back on Sunday. For those who are keeping up with my patch collection no I did not visit any Chiefs or any Fire stations this time. I do plan to go and Visit the Dalton Georgia Fire Department soon! (I did notice that they have several newer Sutphen Engines and Ladder!) For the ones that did not know Bristol Va. Fire recently ordered a Rescue Engine and a 100ft Platform from Sutphen.

Anyway Now that 2006 is history what calls, incidents, or anything do you all remember about 2006? Comment on it I will start.........

The Training facility is under construction.
The new Engine and Ladder.

What Else?

And Once again Happy New Year!

Bristol Tennessee Chief To Retire

2006-12-29T00:07:00.000-02:00

After 42 years Chief Phil Vinson is going to retire.

He has been Chief for 30 years!

Good Luck in your Retirement Chief!

Here is the Link From Bristol News.com

I will update with more information as I get it.

New Web Address for the Blog!

2006-12-27T19:19:00.000-02:00

Well it is offical the blog has another address!!!

Update your records to:

www.BristolFirefighters.com

Take Care and have a GREAT and SAFE NEW YEAR!!!!

Roark

A shift Christmas Dinner

2006-12-27T15:36:00.000-02:00

On Christmas Eve, "A" shift had a Christmas Dinner, here are a few Pics from the event.

Thanks to Lt. Richard Thompson for the submission!

Blog Change Info.

2006-12-25T16:32:00.000-02:00

Over next several of days We are going to be testing several new looks.....So each time you visit it may be a little different. Hang in there with us as we figure out the new changes!

Thanks again

Have a great Holiday

Roark

Merry Christmas!!!!

2006-12-25T16:15:00.000-02:00

Merry Christmas to everyone who visits the site!

The Webmaster and all involved with this Blog wish you and yours a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

We look forward to make several changes to this blog in the year to come.

Also special thanks to FireFleitz and Roanokefire.com for all of the help with our blog!

Roark

Working on a new look for the blog!

2006-12-23T19:26:00.000-02:00

check out some of the new features and changes!

1. New name (the Url is still the same!) Bristol Virginia Firefighters Blog
2. Flickr account on the right.....if you have pics send them in I will up load them into the slide show.

I am working on a few other things that I will get on the blog after the first of the year!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

Roark

My trip to Gadsen

2006-12-22T17:13:00.000-02:00

Well here are a couple of pics I took while in Alabama.

The guys I met from Gadsen were great they are a department that is about the size of Both Bristol's. There Chief was with the guys as they were collecting money for needy children for the holidays!

The Picture quality is poor (I took the pictures with my Phone)

The Engine is a Late 80's or early 90's E-One

The Command unit is Just like ours it is a 2000 ish model Ford Expedition.

Anyway enjoy and I will post more tomorrow!

New Post!

2006-12-21T00:15:00.000-02:00

I have been out of town In Collinsville,Alabama for the past several days, (Collinsville is between Fort Payne and Gadsen Alabama) I Met the Chief of Gadsen fire Department and an Engine Company while they were raising money for kids in need! They were doing a great job, maybe an idea for us next year!

I will post some pics sometime tomorrow!

Roark

Christmas Dinner Information

2006-12-15T10:14:00.000-02:00

The Christmas dinner will be held at Bristol Life Saving Crew building on Sunday at 4pm. We decided to change the location to make it easier on everyone as far as getting tables and chairs and also for cooking purposes. If the wives would like to bring a dessert, it would be greatly appreciated. If you have any special requests for food please let me know before Sunday. The menu will consist of ham, mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, rolls, green beans, sweet potato casserole and some other vegetables.

Thanks,
Robert

Message From Darren Rock

2006-12-14T21:02:00.000-02:00

I would just like to say thanks to everyone on the department for making me feel welcomed at my internship this semester. You all were great to be around and I could not have asked for a better internship placement. I was so worried that I was going be ignored and not taken seriously, but that never happened. Over the semester I learned a lot from everyone as well as made some friends. I hope to keep in touch and thanks again for everything you did this semester.

Thanks again,

(Dogrobber, Lil Lieutenant., Junior, Assistant Assistant Chief)
DarRen

Darren Rock Was an intern from Emory and Henry College. He served at Bristol Va. Fire Department during the last semester.

New Station Assignments

2006-12-14T15:16:00.000-02:00

Station 1

Capt. Jeff Simpson

Lt. Loudy
Sgt. Morphew
FF Taylor
FF Sproles
FF Witcher
And The new Rookie

Station 2

1st Lt Shumate
1st Sgt Nash
FF Quillen

Station 3
Lt Slagle
Sgt Steffey
Sr. FF Scott
FF Roark

Don' Forget the Christmas Dinner at Station 1 at 1600 THIS SUNDAY

Call FF Taylor with how many you are bringing

Look Close!

2006-12-13T00:29:00.000-02:00

This article is reprinted with permission from WWW.VentEnterSearch.com

Look Close
December 08th, 2006 Category: Inside Functions
Vincent Wolfe from Charlotte Ladder 1 sent some pictures of something interesting they found on a call. Look at this picture and check out the supplemental page for a full description of their find. –Jimm-

The master bedroom had a 6 ft by 6ft bookcase near the window on the division A side. They found a crib in between the window and the back of the bookcase. If this had been an active fire situation and at night how many of you would have realistically taught to look behind there during a primary search? Something to think about.

You can notice in the photo above it looks like a bay style window that helps conceal the crib.

A sincere thanks goes out to Vincent and the brothers and sisters from Charlotte Fire for sharing this experience with us.

Special thanks to Our Brothers at www.VentEnterSearch.com

Promotions and Moves!!!

2006-12-12T22:58:00.000-02:00

Congratulations to the following on their promotions:

Lt. Jay Bolling to Captain on "A" Shift
1st Sgt. Rick Slagle to Lt. on "C" Shift
Sgt. Nash to 1st Sgt. on "C" Shift
Sr. Firefighter Jim Ross to Sgt. on "A" Shift
Firefighter Jay Gouge to Sr. Firefighter on "B" Shift

Good luck to Bolling and Gouge as we loose them from "C" Shift

I understand that we have Hired a couple of New Firefighters I have heard Rumors but I do not have any clear picture of who they are and where they will be going!

Anyone know when the Firefighters will start?

New Record

2006-12-08T01:34:00.000-02:00

Well this might seem a little silly but today as of 2200 hrs. Our blog has had 102 hits for the day. This is the most to date! I do not know if you noticed but I have added statcounter this counts how many times someone checks out the blog. And no It does not count the times I check it. Also tomorrow if you look under the links you will noticed a cluster map. This will tell us where people are from when they look at the blog.

Also if you have not had the chance to check out the links on the right do there are several AWSOME web sites that have some great information!

Remember if you want something posted let me know we will get it up on the blog!

I am also thinking of making it a Department Wide Blog let me know what you think about that idea?

Quint 1 and Engine 2 Respond to Bristol Tennessee Fire

2006-12-07T12:03:00.000-02:00

Quint and Engine 2 responded to assist Bristol Tennessee on a Structure Fire off of Maryland Ave.

I do not have any Pics but here is a link to the News Story

Bristol News

If anyone has Pictures of the incident please send them to me and I will post them
email to Site Admin

News from a former Bristol Va. Firefighter

2006-12-05T15:27:00.000-02:00

Kim and DJ, DJ, Dan and DJ

I got an email from guess who? DAN'O He is doing well and said to tell everyone hello. He has sent me a few pics of he and his family. I look forward to hearing more from Dan and keeping in touch with him. He also wants to know who put the concrete in his car?

In other news I have obtained permission from Chief Billy Goldfeder to link his website!

So check it out It is a great web site and has lots of great information on firefighter saftey!
www.firefighterclosecalls.com