As another year comes to a close and a new one begins, the Officers and Members of First West Chester reflect on the incidents, events, good times and bad that have happened throughout 2012. Over the last year, the First West Chester Fire Company and the West Chester Fire Department has seen change, suffered loss, and experienced growth.

2012 brought new Chief Officers to the West Chester Fire Department. Michael Cotter's term as Fire Chief ended in 2011, and Dale McClure, then Assistant Chief of First West Chester, was sworn in as Chief of the Department for 2012 to 2014. Steven Pelna, then Captain, was sworn in as Assistant Chief. Jonathan Stafford from Station 52 was also sworn in as Assistant Chief. Within the Company Keith Green was elected as Captain and Jeff Kramer, Dave Morris, and Justin McClure were elected as Lieutenants.

The Company began a large scale building project which included the razing of the old administrative building and the construction of a new, larger building. The new facility added amenities such as larger officers, a bunk room, shower facilities, fitness room, and new communications room. The current engine room also received siding and paint to match the new building. The project was completed by Kistler Builders at the end of the summer. A dedication ceremony was held in early November.

The West Chester Fire Department lost two very active and loved members in 2012. In July, James "Jimmy" Graham from Station 52 lost his long, hard fought, battle with cancer. Then, in November, Captain 52, Chris "Goody" Good, died suddenly after battling a house fire in West Goshen Township. Both Jimmy and Goody were outstanding firefighters and friends to the entire department. They will not be forgotten.

Station 51 responded to 435 calls for service in 2012. Although this number is down overall from previous years, Station 51 has responded to a greater number of working fires, including 25 structure fire responses. This included assists to the City of Coatesville Fire Department as well as a special call to assist Lancaster County Station 3-9 for Engine 51-1.

The First West Chester Fire Company, along with the entire West Chester Fire Department, participated in the 2012 Pennsylvania State Fireman's Convention and parade. The parade was held in Norristown Pennsylvania on September 28. The West Chester Fire Department won 2nd place for Best Appearing Department in the State. The 2013 convention and parade is being hosted in West Chester in conjunction with the Fame Fire Company's (Station 53) 175th anniversary.

The Officers and Members of First West Chester look forward to 2013. The active crew will continue to train so they can better serve people that call for their assistance and the Company will continue to work on improvements to our facilities.

From the Officers and Members of First West Chester Fire Company; we would like to wish the greater West Chester community a safe and prosperous new year.