HUNTINGTOWN, Md. – The Huntingtown Volunteer Fire Department and Rescue Squad is celebrating a significant milestone on February 24: 50 years of dedicated service to the residents of Huntingtown.
“I am so proud of our members, past and present, on this incredible accomplishment,” said HVFD Chief Timothy Clark. “50 years of entirely volunteer fire and rescue services speaks to the compassion and dedication of those who served and are serving, and it also speaks to our community’s amazing support.”
The department formed its roots in 1970, when several residents of Huntingtown gathered at the home of Mr. Gordon Bowen to discuss forming their own Fire/Rescue Department. Until then, fire protection services for Huntingtown were provided by the North Beach and Prince Frederick Volunteer Fire Departments.
Community members held a meeting at the American Legion Hall, where those present voted to proceed in forming the department. The group later went before the Board of County Commissioners and presented their plan, along with 40 signatures of Huntingtown residents who agreed to volunteer and serve the department. On February 24, 1972 the Huntingtown Volunteer Fire Department was officially formed with between 55-60 Charter members. Read more about our history here.
Today the department has 110 members, with 80 riding members. The first due area is approximately 45 square miles, the largest in Calvert County, and covers a mix of residential, commercial/retail and rural areas. EMS calls are handled by about 60-70 EMT’s and 10 Paramedics.
Community engagement is a priority. The department hosts regular events such as Bingo, a Corvette Contest, an annual fund drive, and Santa Runs taking place every year during the holiday season. The HVFD also serves the community and raises funds for operating expenses by running a Banquet and Conference Center, which is available for residents of Calvert County and surrounding areas.
“50 years later, our department remains committed to providing high-quality emergency services by dedicated volunteers. Our core values that built HVFD from the ground up – selfless and compassionate service, reliability and professionalism, and excellence in everything we do – are still very much intact today,” said President Mike Hardesty. “I cannot wait to see what we accomplish in the next 50 years.”
For more information about the Huntingtown Volunteer Fire Department and Rescue Squad, visit our website.
Happy 50th anniversary. Keep up the good work!