Three members of the Capitol Heights Volunteer Fire Department provided additional support during the 57th Presidential Inaugural on Monday, January 21, 2013, in our Nation’s Capital, Washington, D.C. They joined other members in the CHVFD’s history that participated in previous inaugural events for Presidents Nixon, Reagan, and Clinton.
Acting Lieutenant Brian Graham, Firefighter/EMT Bill Lehew, Jr., and Firefighter/EMT Kevin Kramer started their day before the sun came up at 0230 hours. Taking short trip in Ambulance 805 to a nearby District of Columbia fire station, they rallied with other units from the area to receive their credentials and assignments. Ambulance 805 would provide emergency medical service care during the Inauguration at 7th Street and Constitution Avenue. Even though they were not on the parade route, they did see thousands of people who had flocked to the Nation’s Capital for President Obama and Vice President Biden’s second inaugural event. They provided service as needed, and were later transferred to DCFD station to provide coverage.
No matter what anyone’s political convictions may be, Inauguration Day is a chance to serve our country and the President of the United States; it is a privilege that few departments and their members can experience. We’re proud to continue the tradition of service provided during these events and are proud of our members who answered the call to duty.