WICHITA COUNTY (KFDX/KJTL) — From humble beginnings, with custom-built fire trucks to the fire department it is today, the Cameron Gardens Volunteer Fire Department has come a long way.

But it has always been a volunteer fire department, which for Assistant Chief Brad Russell, deepens the bond between the station and the community it serves.

“It is definitely about the service. You know, it feels good to be out here helping the people that I know, some people that I grew up with,” Russell said. “And I do enjoy the fire service. It’s very fulfilling. There’s so many things about it that I enjoy, the friends I make, the relationships, and those go a long way.”

Over the fire department’s 50-year history, many firefighters have come and gone. Part of what made the 50th-anniversary special was recognizing two firefighters who were a part of it all from the very beginning. A level of commitment rarely seen in any profession.

“Being a firefighter or a first responder, it’s definitely not for everyone,” Russell said. “But you find those people that really have the drive and desire to continue to do it, and that’s what makes it sustainable.”

Looking down the road for the Cameron Gardens V.F.D., its first big challenge as it starts its 51st year will be the Fourth of July.

“We always look forward to the Fourth of July,” Russell said. “We usually have a little get-together up here, and we usually have to run to a few small fires, which is fine. That’s what we’re here for, is to serve the community. So, yeah, it’s great. It’s our favorite time of the year.”

They hope they’ll be serving on the 4th for the next 50 years.

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