100 years of commitment to the community: Ludwigsau-Friedlos fire department celebrates!

100 years of commitment to the community: Ludwigsau-Friedlos fire department celebrates!

The Ludwigsau-Friedlos volunteer fire department celebrated its 100th anniversary with a big party last weekend. In brilliant weather, numerous citizens gathered to properly celebrate this special anniversary together with the volunteers. One of the highlights of the event was the blue light mile, where various aid organizations presented their equipment and made it possible to experience the work of the emergency services up close. East Hesse News reports that Interior Minister Roman Poseck attended the celebrations and honored the firefighters' achievements: "A century of lived solidarity, commitment and civic spirit" is what is being celebrated here.

The Ludwigsau-Friedlos fire department has developed a respectable reputation over the years, with around 280 active emergency services, 125 members in youth and children's groups and around 100 members of the senior and honorary departments. Poseck also presented a grant of 500 euros from lottery funds to the military leader Andreas Lehn to support the club's important work.

Respect package for the emergency services

A central topic that was addressed during the celebrations is the newly introduced “respect package” for emergency services, which was largely initiated by the Hessian state government. Interior Minister Poseck explained that the massive increase in attacks on emergency services in Hesse has created an urgent need for action. In 2023, over 5,200 emergency services were victims of crime, including 5,056 police officers, 24 firefighters and 171 emergency services personnel. Fire department specialist journal has summarized the details.

The respect package aims to increase the appreciation and protection of emergency services. The measures include, among other things, an increase in police service allowances by 22% and various salary adjustments for emergency services. The legal framework is also being improved through a Federal Council initiative to increase the minimum sentence for attacks. “The state's responsibility for the security and prosperity of its citizens goes hand in hand with the protection of the men and women who work in uniformed jobs,” explained Prime Minister Boris Rhein.

Investments in protection and equipment

How the State Chancellery of Hesse reported, millions of dollars flow into fire and disaster protection every year. Around 69 million euros are planned for 2025, of which 21 million euros will go towards funding vehicles and new buildings for municipal fire departments. In addition, around 3.4 million euros are invested in volunteer work, particularly in recognition bonuses for long-standing emergency workers.

The Hersfeld-Rotenburg district has already benefited from these measures. In 2024, six vehicles and four construction projects were realized with funding of around 832,000 euros. There is also a fire safety education coordinator in the district who takes care of education and prevention. The municipality of Ludwigsau has also received three funding commitments in recent years, totaling around 135,000 euros.

It turns out that the dedication and commitment of the firefighters in Ludwigsau-Friedlos are not only recognized, but also promoted through targeted measures. The public's great interest in the celebrations and the active dialogue to appreciate emergency services demonstrate a strong community spirit and continuous support for those who are ready in an emergency.