During this past weekend, I had the opportunity to attend the 69th Annual Convention of the Southern MD Volunteer Fireman’s Association. The convention this year was hosted by the Ridge VFD. On Friday, the Ladies Auxiliary (LA) to the Fireman’s Association had their meeting and installation of officers. Darlene Wood from the Ridge VFD Auxiliary was installed as LA-President for 2016/2017. Some of the axillaries within the association were recognized for their hard work though out the previous year. Saturday evening, Co. 6 was represented at the Fireman’s meeting. Some of the departments in the association received Life Saving awards and were recognized for their efforts last year. Most notably were Co. 1 & Co. 19 for a rescue call that occurred in the Redgate area. A car fell off of a jack pinning a young man underneath. Members of Co. 1 arrived at the scene and lifted the car off of the man, he was pulled out and then Co. 19 personnel established an airway and then transferred him to the MSP helicopter for transport to a trauma center. The young man walked out of the hospital several days later with no deficit. Other companies were recognized for successful CPR calls. Bay District VFD was recognized for their fire prevention efforts last year. Johnny Wathen, also from the Ridge VFD, was installed as the President of the association for 2016/2017. It is very rare that both presidents come from the same fire department. On Sunday, units from Co. 6 were part of the annual association parade. The rain paused just about the time the parade was started. The Honor Guard from the Leonardtown VFD led the parade to the reviewing stand where Author Pilkerton sing a beautiful rendition of the Star Spangled Banner. Co. 6 units that appeared in the parade were, Command 6, MSU/Boat 6, Amb. 67, & Eng. 63. The department brought home trophies for best appearing pumper/tanker and best appearing boat. After the parade, several members participated in the firemen’s games. Co. 6 won the Bucket Brigade contest with an impressive time of under two minutes. They gave their best effort in the Tug of War and Battle of the Buckets, but were not successful in those contests. My THANKS to all who attended and helped get ready for these events