On Sunday, August 26th the Vigilant Hose Company was honored to host the retirement luncheon for John Woelfel, Director of Frederick County Emergency Communications and longtime friend of the VHC. Many members of the VHC and Frederick County Public Safety Community were in attendance.

Woelfel, a lifelong Public Safety servant began his service as a Volunteer Firefighter for Guardian Hose Company of Thurmont. He quickly grew in his leadership roles there and soon began his professional career with Taneytown Police. In 1988 he began a career with Frederick County Central Alarm, now Frederick County Emergency Communications. Woelfel held every position within the center thru his tenure with the Department.

Thru his leadership Frederick County Emergency Communications has become one of the leading centers in Emergency Telecommunications in the country. The Fire Service in losing a great friend and strong leader and we wish him the absolute best as he and his wife Brenda begin the next chapter of their lives.

Past VHC President and current Board of Director Tim Clarke served as the Master of Ceremonies for the afternoon.

Photos courtesy of Barb Maly.