Every December, the volunteers with the Glen Echo Fire Department participate in their annual tradition of leading a parade of fire engines and apparatus to escort Santa to neighborhoods in their communities. Having served on the Board of Directors for the volunteer fire department for a number of years, including currently as its President, I was proud to once again participate in the event this year.

The past two years have been challenging for everyone, especially first responders who have stepped up in their role, helping to combat the pandemic and serve people in their time of need. Taking some time to drive through the streets and see the big waves, smiles and pure happiness from the neighborhood children (and those young at heart) is a wonderful tradition that helps remind people of all that we have to be thankful for. That service to the community, and seeing the joy it brings, is also a very real reminder for me about one of the reasons why I chose to serve on the Board of the fire department in the first place.    

Beyond the fire department, it has also become a tradition for my family as each year they join me over several nights spreading holiday cheer and comfort to our neighbors, many of whom tell us they look forward to hearing the sirens and seeing Santa every December. It is a small way to give back to the community, one of which I am proud to play a special role.