DUMAS, TEXAS -- They put their lives on the line, without thinking twice.
"We're not used to staying out on grassfires for 20 to 24 hours at a time but other than that, you know, that's what we do. And whether they're volunteers or paid, that's what they do", says Dumas Fire Department Fire Chief, Paul J. Jenkins.
On top of the long and tireless hours of firefighting, the Dumas Fire Department took a blow this year during one of the many large grassfires.
"The truck became stuck in the sand and then the fire overtook it and we lost the truck. The truck was about right at about $120,000 loss", says Jenkins.
"It was totally lost, everything was gone on it. So at that point that's when we realized at KDDD we need to do something to recognize our fire department, help them out a little bit and let them know the community is behind them", says sales representative with KDDD Radio, Don Parsons.
So that's just what they did. KDDD Radio and the community of Dumas came out Wednesday for a hot dog lunch to recognize and thank the Dumas Fire Department. They honored them with a plaque and a check for around $4,000 of locally donated money.
But no money nor words, locals say, can express the sheer appreciation they have for their firefighters.
"As they go out, they leave their families and you don't know what's going to happen and so we really appreciate them very very much", adds Parson.
"It always means a lot. We're in one of those type positions where we do a lot for people but we don't hear a lot of 'thank you's' like a lot of people think we do but it's great to be honored", continues Jenkins.
By the show of support Wednesday, Dumas fire fighters were certainly honored for what they truly are -- local heroes.
The City of Dumas has already replaced the lost truck and Wednesday's donated money will go towards providing all the bells and whistles that are needed to have the truck ready for service. KDDD also hopes to make this an annual donation event for the fire department or other local departments in need.
