At the regular meeting of the Epworth Community Volunteer Firemen, President Tony Krapfl announced the retirement of Al Esch after ten years of dedicated service to the Epworth Fire Department. With the announcement, there was a general silence among the members because we were losing a professional firefighter, a leader and a role model. During his ten years of service, Al served on the board of directors and President. He also worked his way through the ranks of the Iowa Firefighters Association and served as President of the IFA.

We would like to thank Al for his ten years of dedicated, volunteer service to the department. He trained, answered the emergency calls and completed all of the requirements of being an outstanding firefighter. He has helped many people over the years that were having an emergency in their lives. His compassion and professionalism made their difficult time less worrisome.

We hope Al enjoys his new found free time. Once again, THANK YOU AL!