Church of God in New Windsor Honors 35 Vails Gate Firefighters

NEW WINDSOR, NY—On Monday, February 24, 2020, the World Mission Society Church of God hosted an appreciation banquet in honor of the Vails Gate Fire Department. About 35 volunteer firefighters attended the event at the Church of God in New Windsor, in which the Church of God presented a monetary donation in support of the firefighters’ volunteerism.

“The work you do for society and for this nation—I really appreciate that,” said Pastor Daniel Lee of the Church of God in his opening address to the firefighters. “You are truly heroes.”

“It was a great turnout by our members. Everybody really enjoyed it,” said Michele Bender, President of the Vails Gate Fire Company. “I think [by] continuing to serve your community, when you serve others, you serve yourself.”

The department mostly consists of members who work full time jobs during the day and volunteer at night. Nonetheless, their selfless volunteerism often goes unnoticed. For this reason, the Church of God held the event to thank them and let them know they are an integral part of the community.

This is the second time the church has honored its local firefighters; in 2016, the Church of God awarded the Vails Gate Fire Department with a plaque of appreciation.

The appreciation banquet began at 7:30 p.m. with a few words from Pastor Daniel Lee as well as Assistant Chief Thomas Lucchesi. Afterwards, Pastor Lee presented a donation to go towards the department’s volunteer efforts in the district.

Furthermore, Pastor Lee went around the room and personally thanked each firefighter. The firefighters also receiving a tour of the church and watched videos about the church’s volunteer activities.

The World Mission Society Church of God, also being no stranger to volunteerism, has been highly active in the State of New York. In May 2019, the Church of God’s student volunteer group, ASEZ, was invited to the New York State Capital Building. There, Senator Monica Martinez and Assemblyman Chris Tague introduced them before the NYS Senate and Assembly, complimenting them on their volunteerism through the state.

Additionally, on behalf of the New York State Assembly, Assemblyman Nader Sayegh awarded ASEZ volunteers for their dedication to community service with a letter of recognition at ASEZ's World Peace Concert on August 19, 2019.

The Vails Gate Fire Department, also known as the Vails Gate Fire Company, has a long history, spanning for more than 100 years. According to their website, the group originally began as the Vails Gate Social Club in 1906. After the club worked together to contain a fire that broke out, they revitalized themselves as volunteer firefighters.