SLAYTON FIRE DEPARTMENT ACCEPTS RESIGNATIONS FROM THREE LONG TIME VOLUNTEERS

The city of Slayton has humbly accepted the resignations of three long-time firefighters for our community: Dean Ackerman served 33 years, Mike Loosbrock served 27 years, and Neil Forsberg served 25 years. The trio complete their commitment this month, reflecting on many years of training and experiences that shaped their lives.

Dean, Mike and Neil all stated they began their terms because of a sense of community service. Dean said, “I wanted to be part of the community and this was the best way. It never changed.” Mike and Neil agreed, and noted they were encouraged to join by work associates who were also firefighters. Though fire fighters meet two Monday evenings a month and respond to emergencies, Neil said, “I never felt like it took too much of my time.” Dean added, “It’s the greatest time of your life! You meet new people and there are exciting things happening all the time. That doesn’t mean it’s easy though, and many times the calls haven’t been good.” Emergency calls can be especially emotional when they involve your friends and neighbors, but the fire fighters all agreed the camaraderie of the force made the work easier. Dean said, “You couldn’t ask for a better group of people. We are so well trained I wouldn’t be afraid of anything with that department.” He also noted that the skills of each member benefit the entire team. “We are such a diverse group - carpenters, electricians, etc.” Mike said he learned a lot of skills from the training. “Not just fire fighting, but auto extraction and even teamwork. The whole experience was very rewarding.”

The work of the volunteer department has changed during their tenure. Neil remarked, “There aren’t as many fire calls as we had in the past. There used to be a lot of house and barn fires, but now we help the ambulance more as they are short staffed.” Neil actually served on the ambulance crew simultaneously for twenty years, as a first responder, EMT and a director. Dean noted how fires have changed over the past decades. “Because of house construction changes and synthetic materials, fires burn hotter, faster and are more dangerous now.” And though the department responds to fewer fires, they are called to assist with lifts, medical emergencies, and weather spotting.

The veterans sound a bit melancholy as they turn in their beepers, but all agree the time has come for new, younger community members to enlist. Mike said, “I’ll miss these guys - they are a great group to work with.” Neil stated, “This was a good experience, a good group to be around, and good for the community.” Dean added, “It was a wonderful run and I know they will keep up the great work we’ve always done. I feel I’m leaving it at a good time in capable hands.” The Slayton community extends a heartfelt “thank you” to three generous men and their families who gave many hours of service for many years.