Broadway Emergency Squad

Serving the community since 1953

Our History

The Broadway Emergency Squad was founded in October of 1953 because of great concern for the citizens of the surrounding Broadway Community.  At that time the closest emergency unit was located in Harrisonburg, Virginia. In 1953 there were no "super highways," just two and three lane roads at best. Eleven very determined community men set forth to form an organization that would change their lives as well as the lives of our great community.  With only a pickup truck that doubled as fire apparatus and an ambulance that was shared with the local undertaker as his hearse, they began their journey. The first slate of officers for the Broadway Emergency Squad were Lester Price Fitzwater Jr. - Captain, with second in command Lowell Will. The acting secretary/treasurer was Everette Bunk. Other dedicated original members were John Helbert, Ted Hillyard, Jack Lohr, Jospeh May, Gene Nesselrodt, John Williams, Billy and Buddy Wood. Their finances were low. At times it meant paying only one fuel bill that month with a promissory note to the other supplier. But because of the good faith, wisdom and determination of these few men, the squad persevered.   That first year the squad had 15 calls. We as a community, owe much to our forefathers. Their territory was great but their energy to succeed was far greater.

In October 1976 Mr. Fitzwater had another vision fulfilled. The Bergton Branch of the Broadway Emergency Squad was formed. 

"Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends."
St. John 15:13

L.P. Fitzwater                                                                                       

History Provided by Bonnie Caplinger.