Battalion Chief Hazel Wine

It is with regret that we report the death of Battalion Chief Hazel Wine, CFD Retired.  Chief Wine passed away this morning at Roper Hospital after an extended illness.  Our sympathy goes out to his family in their time of sorrow. We will have details of his funeral arrangements as they become available.

"Camp Happy Days" Car Show a Success!!

Today we participated in the 26th Annual Southern Drag Racing Association's Car Show to raise money for "Camp Happy Days". Ninety entries competed in multiple classes and the competition was tough. Our Team was honored to have David Reindollar, of the North Charleston Fire Department, join our display with his tribute fire bike and, not surprisingly, he took top honors in his class. Congratulations and thanks to David and his son for being a part of a successful day! Check out the photos here but especially the one of David and his son admiring their trophy.  A special day that reminds us of why we do this.

The Passing of a Brother.......

It is with sadness that we report the passing of Firefighter Clarence Scott, Sr., CFD Retired, on Wednesday, March 10, 2010.  Clarence retired in 1995 after serving 28 years on the job.  He worked his entire career in the truck house on Coming Street and last served on Truck 4, now known as Tower 104.  He is survived by his wife, Dorothy, three daughters, two sons, fourteen grandchildren, two great grandchildren, four sisters and two brothers.  

Firefighter Scott's wake was held on Sunday, March 14, at the Nichols Chapel AME Church on Kennedy Street in downtown Charleston with funeral services on Monday, March 15, at the church.  Our sincerest condolences go out to his entire family.

Reminder to our CFD Retirees!!

This photo shows some of our retirees enjoying themselves at our last meeting.

Our next quarterly dinner meeting for the "Hooked Up" program will be held this Thursday night, March 11, beginning at 7:00 p.m., at the Charleston Baptist Church on San Miquel Drive, West of the Ashley. Come out and join us for good food and fellowship!

A Day of Joy & Sadness...........

Today, members of our Team were honored to present our Behavioral Health Workshop to the new recruit class. It was exciting to see their enthusiasm as they begin their careers in the fire department. Later in the morning, we accompanied them to the Sofa Super Store site where we all heard an inspiring presentation by Captain Mark Davis and Captain Chris Villareal. The recruits were challenged to honor the Charleston 9 by working hard and taking ownership in the future of the department. It was a great tribute to our nine heroes that I’m sure would have made them proud. We ended the day by sharing in the retirement of Captain Richard Ridge as he completed a thirty-five year career in the CFD. It was certainly a day filled with much emotion but one that makes us proud to be a part of the Fire Service.

Safety Always on Our Mind!!

Pictured here on Captain George Gardiner and Battalion Chief John Winn cooking for Capt. Ridge's retirement party.  Note Chief Kleskie taking air quality readings.  Not sure it was toxic smoke but it sure smelled good.  Gotta love our Safety Chief!!!

Captain Richard Ridge Retires!

Congratulations to Captain Richard Ridge on thirty-five years of dedicated service to the Charleston Fire Dept. as he retires today. We will miss seeing him in the Captain's seat of Engine 111 as it rolls full bore down Savannah Highway. Enjoy your retirement Captain Ridge!