On January 30, 1954 there was a special meeting of the Bedford firemen and their wives. The purpose of this meeting was organizing a local Auxiliary. The Fire Chief at that time was Mr. Henry Turner. Mrs. John Mitchell, Acting Chairman, introduced Mrs. Helen Williams, President of the State Auxiliary, and her mother, Mrs. J. W. Travers, from Alexandria, Virginia. Mrs. Travers was the first president of the State Auxiliary. Mrs. Inez Gross was elected first President of the Bedford Auxiliary. Membership was open to any active fireman or deceased fireman’s wife, mother, daughter or sister; there were 29 charter members. The Bedford Fire Department gave the Auxiliary $25.00 with which to start their Treasury. Mr. and Mrs. R. P. Overstreet gave a treasurer’s book, Mrs. J.W. Travers gave a Bible and Mrs. Helen Williams gave a gavel and collection basket. (These items are still being used today.)
Our Purpose
The purpose of the Auxiliary shall be to aid the Fire Department in every way possible, to foster it’s every cause, to stand behind and uphold it in everything it undertakes and to render any assistance possible at all times. The main objective of the Fire Department Auxiliary is Fireman’s Relief.
2011 Officers
President : Kelly Cunningham
Vice-President : Greta Creasy
Secretary : Scarlett Stevens
Treasurer : Stacey Stenzel
Historian : Sandy Parker
Chaplain : Holly Taggart
Auxiliary Members:
Margaret Carter (Lifetime Member)
Sharon Cassidy
Amber Gardner
Sandy Parker
Amy Baker
Past Events
Appreciation Week:
The Ladies dedicated July 7th thru July 11th as Bedford Fire Department Appreciation week. We decorated the firehouse with thank you signs and appreciation from the auxiliary. Each day we had snacks and goodies for the fireman. Everyday they had a special treat in their box including a pilsner glass with the FD logo and a huggie with BFD printed on it. On Thursday before their business meeting we cooked them an Italian dinner and had the mayor stop by to present them with a resolution declaring that week, Bedford Fire Department Appreciation week. We also presented the fire department with a $5000.00 check from the auxiliary.
The ladies want every fireman to know that we appreciate all their hard work, dedication and time that they put into the department. We are here to support you and will assist you in any way we can. You are the Best of the Best.
Portrait Fund-raiser:
The ladies auxiliary had a very successful portrait fund-raiser during the month of October. Many families and Bedford residents came out to have their picture taken and the ladies would like to thank everyone who made a donation. Proceeds benefit the fire department.
