50 years.
That’s the amount of time that the Greater Manassas Volunteer Rescue Squad has been serving the community, as of 2016.
In honor of the organization’s 50th anniversary, they even had one of the original rescue vehicles – named ‘Creamy’ – restored for full use, according to a City of Manassas release.
And the squad, which is entirely comprised of volunteers, is looking for individuals to join the team.
More from a City of Manassas release:
“It’s a huge sacrifice and you have to have a servant’s heart to volunteer at the rescue squad,” said Pete Rockx, current President of GMVRS. “Some people use the knowledge and skills learned here as career building blocks and others, it just gets in their blood and they are hooked.” Pete also mentioned the Squad’s Auxiliary, whose members don’t run EMS calls but provide morale and welfare support.
To become a volunteer with GMVRS, there is a process. After applying, candidates are interviewed given a background check and agility test, and must pass a medical exam. Once voted in by the Squad’s membership, new members begin a probationary period of about six months during which they attend training classes, and learn about the Squad’s policies as well as those of the City’s Fire and Rescue System. It takes about a year to be fully certified as an EMT provider, but members say it is well worth it. In addition to providing members the EMT-B course, the Rescue Squad offers CPR, hazardous materials awareness, Emergency Vehicle Operations to its members along with many other classes needed to maintain their proficiency and certifications. This training is given at no cost to members.
Volunteers can serve as little as one night a week and periodic weekends, but many also serve on the Squad’s various administrative committees. They also work cooperatively with City of Manassas Fire & Rescue personnel. City staff helps with Advanced Life Support practical training, and oftentimes make formal EMS training classes available to GMVRS members.
One of the first rescue vehicles the squad used was nicknamed “Creamy” for its off-white color. In appreciation for EMS services provided by the GMVRS and in honor of their 50th Anniversary, this year a local business restored Creamy to working order.
When asked what they wanted most for their 50th Anniversary, Rescue Chief Curt Huntington responded that they wanted to honor all past and present members who have been keeping this City safe for 50 years. Find out more about the celebration at www.gmvrs.org.
