Camden County Fire Rescue (CCFR) is partnering with the Firehood Foundation to raise awareness of the increased risk of illnesses resulting from firefighting, including cancer, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and substance abuse.
"We want to bring awareness to the health issues that impact our firefighters and first responders,” said Camden County Fire Rescue Chief Terry Smith. “This walk through our community has been an excellent opportunity to demonstrate our commitment to our firefighting brothers and sisters and the issues that impact our field.”
On Thursday, May 27, 2021, CCFR members partnered with representatives from the Firehood Foundation to walk along US Highway 17 in Camden County. Members of the Kingsland Fire Department and St. Marys Fire Department have also joined the procession at various points. After stopping at Station 11 in Woodbine, CCFR members continued walking to Station 17 in Waverly today.
CCFR will continue their walk to the Glynn County line on Saturday. Interested participants are welcome to join a ceremony at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 29, 2021, at Station 17 located at 25399 Highway 17 in Waverly before the group continues to the Glynn County line.
As part of the journey, walkers carry 18 backpacks with mementos from fallen firefighters. Representatives from the Firehood Foundation will continue their walk to Charleston, South Carolina to commemorate the 14th anniversary of the Charleston 9. On Monday, June 18, 2007, the Charleston Fire Department lost nine brave firefighters while battling a devastating blaze at a furniture store.
The mission of the Firehood Foundation is to be our brothers and sisters keeper by providing financial and emotional support to first responders and their families in times of crisis, particularly when dealing with mental health issues, addiction and cancer as well as sharing life skills that are helpful in maintaining emotional and physical sobriety. More information is available on their website at: https://thefirehoodfoundation.org.
