Huntington, Indiana - September 2005
The city of Huntington in Northeast Indiana was established in 1848. It was named after Samuel Huntington, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, who was a relative of one of the original settlers, Captain Elias Murray. One of Huntington's most recognized claims to fame is 44th Vice President Dan Quayle. Quayle called Huntington home for many years as the fifth Hoosier to hold the office of Vice President.

Technology is a Recent Focus
Huntington built its first brick fire station in 1869 and today features three stations and 41 sworn personnel. Fire Chief Rob Miller is committed to public safety in his community. The number of paid personnel is substantial for a community of their size and they have received a Class 5 rating for fire protection. The department has recently applied for a FEMA grant to secure funding for a wireless broadband system for Pre-Fire Plans and GPS for mapping. The system would enable personnel to have fire plans right at their fingertips and allow officers to make decisions in transit to emergency scenes. "It's important for the 'first-in' officer to have all the information they can," states Chief Miller. With the assistance of State Representative Dan Burton, the goal is to eventually expand the system to include the entire county. This will allow other County and City agencies to utilize the infrastructure.

Community Enjoys Benefits
The department's commitment extends to its community as well. Each year, they host a golf tournament designed to raise scholarship money for local high school and college students. The $2,000 scholarships are awarded to 4 students each year. So far, the department has given away more than $25,000.

Eight years ago, William Ehinger, son of Norbert Ehinger, donated $35,000 for the purchase of a smoke trailer that is used to educate elementary school students on fire prevention and safety procedures during community events such as Fire Prevention Week.

Memorial to Honor the Fallen
To recognize those who have made the ultimate sacrifice, the department is establishing Firefighter Memorial Park adjacent to their Southside Station. Voluntarily designed, erected, and built by Huntington firefighters, its focal point will be a large memorial to honor Huntington's three fallen firefighters: Isaac Fisher, Harmon Rittenhouse, and Norbert Ehinger. There will also be a Firefighter Walk of Fame which will allow families and friends of career Huntington firefighters to purchase an engraved brick honoring their service to the community. A third feature of the park will honor firefighters who gave their lives on 9-11. The park is expected to be completed over the next 2-3 years.

Department Fitness is Goal
Chief Miller has made the health and fitness of his personnel a high priority. All personnel have time on duty to exercise and stay physically fit. Each station features an exercise room with the latest equipment. They also have begun providing comprehensive physicals and fitness evaluations on a voluntary basis. Last year, 36 of the 41 firefighters participated. Testing resumes again in the fall. "It has been very eye-opening for them," says Chief Miller. "One way to combat disease is to be in better shape through nutrition and exercise. There's a certain point in life where you can't ignore your health." Chief Miller encourages his personnel to get healthy early in their careers. "It is important to deal with it early to have fewer disability pensions and health problems." He encourages all departments to explore a wellness program. "You will save the city money. No doubt about it."

Click here for the Huntington Fire Department newsletter article.

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© 2006 Public Safety Medical Services