Hello.  My name is Rae Ann Brueche-Wallace.  I have been a volunteer fire fighter since 1989 and a member of Fires Service Women of New Jersey since the second meeting.  My primary department I am a member of is the Whippany Fire Department of Whippany, NJ (www.whippanyfire.com) for which I am a fire fighter and the secondary is the Cedar Knolls Fire Department (and First Aid Squad) of Cedar Knolls, NJ (www.cedarknollsfd.com) for which I am a member of the first aid squad as an EMT.  These two companies are actually sister companies.  During my years on these departments I have been a Secretary, a Treasurer, and a Lieutenant.

I believe in this organization, feel we can make a difference to each other or assist any who ask for help.  Either in the information we have access to or we can be a support team.  Since, at one time or other someone has gone through a similar situation that you are going through or have been through.  We are a support to each other and a network team.  This organization was originally designed to assist women in the emergency services but now has evolved to assist (and design) for women and men alike.  That alone is a great feat.  As long as we keep the communication channels open, we can achieve anything our hearts desire.  Yes, that sounds like a line everyone says, but if you think about it, you can do anything your heart wants or wishes.  It has been proven time and time again. 

Every year we have an annual Retreat or shall we say a networking of training and support for fire fighters.  Our training is open to anyone who has a will to learn and better themselves and others.  Our annual Retreat is moved around the state, from Northern NJ to Central NJ to Southern NJ and is usually in the spring time (March or April).  We try to keep everyone happy and able to come to it.  We realize with everyone’s busy lives that some times it is not possible.   Your family comes first, then your lively hood (careers/jobs) then if you have time, your second love: fire fighting and training.

Everyone stop and reflect what you have done.  You are amazing people, children want to be you when they grow up and other just admire from a distance.  We all are here for a common reason, to help others.  That is the American way that we are taught at an early age.  I would like to thank all of you for your time, efforts and dedication over the years and to keep up the fantastic work.  Be safe and continue to care.  Feel free to contact me at pres@fswnj.org

           

Sincerely,

Rae Ann

Rae Ann Brueche-Wallace

President (2007-2009)

Fire Service Women of New Jersey