In recent years, Schuylkill County firehouses have been struggling to make ends meet and they are thankful for every donation they receive.
The American Hose Co., Ashland, led by Fire Chief Phillip Groody, spent part of their Saturday evening thanking those that have given to them and supported them over the years.
First stop, May's Drive In. The crew from the American Hose arrived with their truck and in full gear (they just completed a call in the borough) to thank Kathy and Tom Schreck for all their contributions. Most recently, they donated to the firehouse to purchase a new thermal imaging camera. The business has also been their for the "troops", as Chief Groody called them, during fire incidents.
Later that evening, the firehouse held their annual member's Christmas Party. Chief Groody had another surprise for a special guest, Tom Canfield.
Canfield has been a long-time member of the firehouse and has donated to the firehouse many times, especially for fundraising and raffles. Groody presented Canfield with the 2018 American Hose Co. Fireman of the Year Award.