FLEETWOOD, Pa. — They came from all over.
“If you’re not familiar with the trucks — oh, they came from pretty far. Some of these are local departments coming out; some are from different states,” said Lt. Ryan Tyson with the Walnuttown Fire Department.
To answer the final call, in grief but with gratitude.
“It might be a two- or three-hour drive for some of these departments, but they understand what they’re making that drive for,” Tyson said.
A week ago, Walnuttown Fire Chief Jeff Buck and Assistant Chief Robert Shick were driving an off-road vehicle on the side of Route 222 in Richmond Township during a missing persons search when they were hit by a car and killed.
On Saturday, family, friends, and first responders gathered inside the auditorium at Fleetwood High School for the funeral.
“We thank you for their courage, their strength, their unwavering commitment to protecting our community,” a minister said.
Where the reciting of the “Fireman’s Prayer” brought a pastor to tears.
“And if according to your will I have to lose my life … bless with your protecting hand my loving family from strife,” she said, amid tears.
In times of tragedy …
“Unfortunately, they both passed together, but they passed together as best friends, as lifelong friends and lifelong firefighters. They did it together and they went together,” said Brett Shick.
— tradition serves as a stronghold —
“Berks to Chief Buck and Assistant Chief Shick. Attention all units and stations: It is with deep regret we announce the passing of Chief Buck and Assistant Chief Shick of the Walnuttown Fire Department. Roll call has been taken.”
All leading — to the last call.
“The bell has been struck for their last alarm. May the sun shine upon their path, may the wind always be at their backs, and may the Lord hold them in the palm of his hands til we meet again.”