A Commitment to Service: An Interview With OWLVFD Firefighter Derek Wells

Since 1938 Occoquan-Woodbridge-Lorton Volunteer Fire Department (OWLVFD) has been proudly serving our area. An exemplary commitment to service to the community and quality of work has been passed on year after year, from our earliest members to those serving today. Our history of excellence is one each of our members is proud to be associated […]

Volunteer Firefighters Who Get Screen Time

Earlier this month, we took a trip through the history of volunteer firefighting and focused on founding fathers who also served in this role. But those famous Americans aren’t the only ones who have worked as volunteer firefighters. Some of today’s celebs have a volunteerism past, and present, as well.   Steve Buscemi Steve Buscemi […]

Our Volunteers Fight Fires, Teach Lessons and Demonstrate Fire Safety

The job our volunteers do each day, serving and protecting the community, is impressive on its own. But did you know they do more? They aren’t just fighting fires and responding to emergencies; they’re also serving as educators and bringing the community together through a variety of events and demonstrations. Those who serve with us […]

Tones, Rewards and Challenges: An Interview With Sara Khurshid Part 3

EMT Sara Khurshid took a leap and jumped out of her comfort zone into the volunteer rescue world. And she hasn’t looked back since. What she has done, though, is learn the ropes, face challenges and continue to grow.   Receiving the Call From the moment “the tones drop,” signaling an alarm, Khurshid and the […]

Take a Leap: An Interview With EMT Sara Khurshid, Part 2

Each volunteer has his or her own reasons for volunteering. Sara Khurshid had three. First and foremost, she wanted to step outside of her comfort zone to experience growth. Secondly, she felt a responsibility as a female, Pakistani, Muslim Asian-American to serve in her community. “In my observation, I think sometimes local community outreach within […]

Rural, Suburban and Urban Volunteer Fire and Rescue Departments? Prince William County Has Them All!

We often say in Prince William County, “We have it all.” While realtors think of convenient locations and incredible amenities, volunteer firefighters and first responders interpret that a bit differently. By “all,” we mean we’ve got rural, suburban and urban areas to serve and protect — and PWC is a big county! With 336 square […]