Smith to lead Manawa Rural Fire Department

By Holly Neumann

The Manawa Rural Fire Department has a new fire chief.

Josh Smith got the final approval from the Manawa Rural Fire and Ambulance Fire Board on April 26 and will be sworn into the position during the board’s May meeting.

“I realize that this title comes with many responsibilities and that I have quite a job ahead of me following the previous chiefs that were in this position,” Smith said. “That being said, I am honored that the membership and the fire board have chosen me to do this job, which I plan to do with the utmost respect.”

Smith, along with other officers, are looking at is rebuilding the membership to what it was about four years ago while meeting the requirements set for by the state to be on a fire department.

“There are always changes when leadership sees a change and I’m sure this will be no exception,” he said.

Smith has been a member of the department for 22 years.

“I don’t think I can narrow it down to just one thing that makes me love what I do, from gaining another family in the department to getting to know some great people from not only MRFD, but numerous other departments as well,” he said.

He said one of the most satisfying things to see is how hard members of the department work, train and respond when someone is having possibly the worst day of their lives.

“These members show up and will go to unbelievable lengths to provide help to anyone in need,” he said. “I think that is the thing I enjoy the most about this job, watching every member grow together to become one team.”

More volunteers needed

Smith wants the community to know the department is always looking for new members.

“The men and women that I serve and have served with are some of the most unselfish people that I have had the privilege to know and call friends and family,” he said. “Just like many other departments, we are always looking for new members.”

Anyone wishing to join the department may call the station at 920-596-2593 or send an email to [email protected]

“Reach out,” Smith said. “I promise you that you will see everything I have said about being a member of MRFD is nothing but the truth.”