Gloucester Volunteer Fire and Rescue Squad’s newest member is the fourth generation in her family to belong to the organization.

Shelbe McFarland was inducted into the GVFRS as a full-fledged, adult member on June 6, said a press release from Fire Prevention Officer Tony Villani. Her father, life member Duane McFarland, issued her the personal protective apparel and equipment that all members receive when joining the squad.

The new Gloucester EMT graduated from high school in 2020, two weeks after her 16th birthday, and the following January enrolled in GVFRS’s in-house EMT program, said Villani. Once her training was completed, she became a member of the GVFRS Junior Squad, serving until she became 18 and was old enough to serve as an adult.

The thing that stands out about Shelbe’s membership is the longtime dedication of the McFarland family, said Villani. Her great-grandparents, Minnie and Mac McFarland, and her great-aunt and great-uncle, Harry and Glenda McFarland, all j...