At the West Grove Fire Company, we never lose sight of the important contributions made by our volunteers.

We are proud to be one of Pennsylvania's most progressive "combination" departments -- meaning our operations are a combination of dedicated volunteers AND career employees. That said, the thousands and thousands of volunteer hours committed each year to the fire company's operations remain at our core, and shape our shared history.

Recently, past-president Steve "Reds" Flegal had the opportunity to visit with WGFC life member Tom Crawford at his home in nearby Quarryville. There, he presented Tom with his 70-year pin, recognizing Tom's continuing membership over seven decades. While simply being a member that long is admirable, Tom's many, many years as a Trustee of the company must be noted -- trustees oversee the maintenance and upkeep of the fire company's facilities.

The Crawford family of West Grove has a long history of community service, and many Crawfords have served the fire company as volunteer firefighters. John T. Crawford served as Chief, and a scholarship is presented in his name each year by WGFC at Avon Grove High School. Bobby Crawford served as a line officer. And, additionally, the Crawford family is filled with those whose service is not just to the West Grove community, but also to our nation as veterans. This is true for Tom, and we thank him and his family for their service.

Past-President Flegal points out that Tom's 70-year pin was actually due to be presented two years ago. Today we congratulate Tom Crawford for 72 years of membership in the WGFC!