Mathews County last week recognized four members of the Mathews Volunteer Fire Department who have served 50 or 60 years. This is a remarkable record … but it is typical of the men and women in both of our counties who try to help their fellow citizens.

Firefighters and rescue workers in both counties are always poised to travel toward the unknown, to save life and property, and to protect our communities. We are in their debt for more than each individual response.

Our debt should recognize the time that no such protection existed; when fires would spread across areas to destroy more than one home; when victims of sudden illness or accident stood a good chance of not making it.

These dedicated volunteers deserve more than our thanks. They deserve our support.

We are pleased to tell you below how to make your gratitude more than a smile and a pat on the back (with a check).

Abingdon Volunteer Fire and Rescue: P.O. Box 9, Bena, Va. 23018.

Gloucester Volunteer Fire and...