On Sunday July 9th we held a cookout at our building to welcome home Jack and Frances Ann Cullison. Jack suffered a stroke in December and had been in rehab until April. Since they have been home they have not let any grass grow under their feet. Frances Ann loads Jack up into the car and off they go sometimes for the day, sometimes for a week. Jack’s recovery is going well and Frances Ann has not left his side during this whole time.

For over 55 years they have been serving our community, Jack as a Driver and Frances Ann as a Driver/EMT. They have both held Administrative and Operational positions throughout the years. Our rescue squad would not be what it is today if it wasn’t for their dedication to our community.

One of my favorite things to do is to listen to all of the old stories about how they got started in the rescue squad and the different calls that they had. I believe my favorite was Jack telling me about the time they were transporting to the old hospital in the snow and had to turn the Cadillac around backwards to get it up the hill. There are a few others but it’s probably best I don’t repeat those but believe me, they had Jack belly laughing while telling them.

I had the pleasure of transporting Jack, Frances Ann and their belongings a few times. When I say their belongings, I mean 3 suitcases, a Rubbermaid tub of cards that people sent, pictures that Franny put up to remind Jack of his girls (the dogs) and home, and some flower arrangements. At one point National Rehab thought they were literally moving in because it took us 2 trips to bring everything up on the stretcher.

I want pass along Jack and Frances Ann’s sincerest gratitude to everyone who came out that day. They have so much love for their community and for each other. We saw many past and present members, family and friends. I would also like to pass on my appreciation to everyone who helped set up/clean up, cooked the food or brought a dessert.

Mandy Purdy
Chief 49