A Glimpse into the History of the Damascus Volunteer Fire Department

We are proud to share a few treasured images from the early years of the Damascus Volunteer Fire Department. These photos offer a unique look at the apparatus, events, and individuals who helped shape our department’s legacy.

Please check back soon for expanded historical details and additional archival photos.

Original DVFD Apparatus and Firehouse

• Original Firehouse Line-Up (Left to Right):

  • 1945 Ford Pumper

  • 1937 Buick Ambulance – Originally a hearse, acquired from Damascus Funeral Home for $1

  • 1932 REO Pumper

  • 1942 Chevrolet Truck

• Original Firehouse Line-Up (Right to Left in Alternate Photo):

  • 1945 Ford Pumper

  • 1953 Ford Truck

  • 1955 Chevrolet Ambulance

  • 1956 Chevrolet Brush Truck

  • 1942 4-Wheel Drive Brush Truck

Featured Apparatus

• DVFD's First Pumper:

  • 1945 Ford Oren

  • Active Service: 1945–1970

  • Restored: 1979

Department Events and Teams

• 1958 Takoma Park Parade Participants:

  • Frank Leizer

  • Billy Riggleman

  • Bob Shaw

  • Unknown

  • Jerry Hyatt

  • Leonard King

• 1960 DVFD Hook-Up Team:

  • Back Row (Left to Right): Frank Leizer, Bobby Runkles, Danny Ifert, Arthur German

  • Front Row (Kneeling, Left to Right): Ronnie Gue, George Easterday, Luther Burke, Lester Runkles, Roger Runkles, Ronald R. Watkins

• 1970 DVFD Ladies Auxiliary Hook-Up Team:

  • Participants: Driver (Unknown), Marsha Gue, Linda Watkins Brightwell, George Easterday, "The Judge"