Inaugural Sugar Land Fire Fighters Ball was a Huge success
BIG THANK YOU - DONATIONS FOR FIREFIGHTERS AND EMS
Because when you call, they come
To say that the Inaugural Sugar Land Fire Fighters Ball at Safari Texas this past Saturday was a success is, as the maxim goes, an understatement. It had the traditional pageantry of bagpipers associated with fire departments, drum cadences, and the silent moment bell ceremony in observance of those that fell victim to 9/11, "20 years ago...today," said emcee Khambrel Marshall. And those left standing are the rest of us, including the brave and courageous firefighters and EMS personnel to whom the community paid tribute.
The sold-out event organized by the Sugar Land Citizens Fire Alumni Academy Association (SLCFAAA) on the 20th anniversary of 9/11 turned out to be a time that showed a genuine appreciation to the men and women comprising the local Sugar Land firefighters and EMS personnel. Because when you call, they do come.
The intention of the fundraiser is to take Sugar Land’s EMS to the next level supporting what Sugar Land Fire Chief Doug Boeker says, “we don’t do what’s normal, we do what’s right.” The money generated from the fundraiser is reportedly over $100,000 and will support EMS areas falling outside the city budget. The SLCFAAA continues to invite the community to support these public safety sector services that impact their lives.
Distinguished at the ball were firefighters of the workforce that answer to a variety of emergencies including medical ones which represent a large call volume in Sugar Land of about 60 percent, hazardous materials incidents, vehicle accidents, persons trapped in buildings and vehicles; and fire occurrence to name a few. There were over 30 commendations and awards presented by Chief Boeker for outstanding performance during the course and scope of duty. This included a 47-year-old CPR save incident by a team with Gina McKinney as lead paramedic. McKinney also beautifully sang the national anthem at the start of the event. Ballet Grace added an element of beauty and grace with a classical ballet, and saluted first responders and survivors as they told the somber story of 9/11 translated through movement, human emotions and dramatic expression.
KPRC's broadcast journalist Khambrel Marshall's personal keynote address at the celebratory event reminded participants about the awakening in this country with the occurrence of the horrific 9/11 tragedy. The son of a 30-year veteran, he said, "we have an amazing capability to come together and protect the interest of all of us."
Event Honorary Chairs, former Sugar Land Mayor James A. and Gay Thompson, joined notables that included Mayor Joe Zimmerman, who presented a proclamation in recognition of the achievements and dedication of the SLCFAAA and the outstanding work of the Sugar Land Fire Department. Former Sugar Land Fire Chief Diane Breedlove, the first female Fire Chief in Texas, was present and acknowledged for her outstanding work in Sugar Land.
"We hope that you will remember tonight," said SLCFAAA President Suzanne Whatley, who is also a city councilmember, "in all its glory, fanfare and joy."
The SLCFAAA will continue its work with the fire department and will be announcing next year's event in recognition of the brave and courageous. For more information, visit
www.slcfaaa.com/?fbc lid=IwAR3g6RYGhI07WZ WruOYfGrTUEZuigWgEbe qHDkYnCUcS8CyUV
(Pictured l-r ) Sugar Land Mayor Joe Zimmer man presents a proclamation to SLCFAAA President Suzanne Whatley and Fire Chief Doug Boeker.