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Preserving the legacy of the Alberton Fire Department: Honouring history through memories and a book
Preserving the legacy of the Alberton Fire Department: Honouring history through memories and a book
By Paul Korb
Iserved at Alberton Fire Department from the beginning of 1989 to 1995. My tenure at Alberton allowed me to create a bond with the fireman, the fire station and the town, that is still etched in my heart today. I met one of my mentors, Sedric Prinsloo, who is not only my best friend but whom I can call a brother still today. My experiences at Alberton allowed me to be the person I am today and fulfil the career that I am in. It also allowed me to write the series of books for all who served.
Every fire department has a rich history and that history deserves to be documented and honoured in meaningful ways. Some departments establish museums, while others dedicate space within their stations to display historical artefacts, from old equipment and turnout gear to photographs, bells and memorials. This book serves as another form of tribute, capturing the stories, experiences and evolution of the Alberton Fire Department.
The intent of this book is to showcase the department’s origins and how it has evolved to maintain its legacy for the community, future firefighters and their families. When starting the book, I chose a unique approach, moving beyond conventional historical documentation to bring the memories of those who served to the forefront.
In the past, the department displayed black-and-white photographs and memorabilia in the administration area. While these images held historical significance, they did not always resonate with the firefighters themselves. Firefighters want to see photographs of themselves, reflecting their dedication, camaraderie and service. My books’ intend is to provide that opportunity; it allows them to see their own contributions and for their families to witness the bond that was formed within the department.
It’s just instinct. I think it’s just in your blood. Once you become a fireman, you’re always a fireman. Ninety-five percent of people in the fire service are like that, period. It was part of who we are and what we did. Just like a salesman who’s going to hit the deal of a century, he’s going to do everything he can to achieve that.
We, as firemen, strive to give all that we have in what we do. We’ve got the biggest hearts of anyone you’ll ever meet in your lives. We have to accept the fact that we’ll
go beyond whatever it may be to even put our lives on the line for somebody we don’t even know.
A legacy of service
The Alberton Fire Department’s history is a testament to the town’s resilience and dedication to protecting its people. From its humble beginnings to its modernday operations, the department continues to uphold its mission of safeguarding Alberton. As the town grows, so too does the commitment of its firefighters, ensuring that Alberton remains a safe and thriving community.
The importance of the book
Memorials hold deep meaning for both active and past firefighters. They serve as tangible reminders of appreciation for those who risk their lives to protect others. Within the fire station, memorials are not just symbols of remembrance; they are daily affirmations that the community will never forget those who sacrificed everything in the line of duty.
This book encapsulates the spirit of preserving history, ensuring that the Alberton Fire Department’s legacy remains alive and honoured. It is a tribute to the bravery, dedication and unwavering commitment of those who have served and continue to serve.
A leader beyond compare
Chief Anthony Davey is and always will be, one of the finest gentlemen and officers to have ever served the Alberton Fire Department. His leadership was defined by discipline, fairness and unwavering dedication to the service. Those who had the privilege to serve under him knew that he ran a tight ship but he always treated his firefighters with respect and integrity.
Fulfilling promises: A tribute to Chief Anthony Davey
A commitment to honour
Three promises were made to the late Chief Anthony Davey, a man whose leadership and dedication shaped the Alberton Fire Department. These promises were not just words; they were commitments to preserve his legacy and honour by the firefighters who served under him.
The first promise was to write a book that would celebrate the fire service and the men and women who dedicated their lives to it. This book would not only document the department’s history but also bring to life the memories, camaraderie and sacrifices of those who served. The second promise was that every firefighter who had served at Alberton and wanted a copy of the book would receive one. This was a way to ensure that those who had given their time and energy to the department could see their own reflections in its pages, a tangible reminder of their service and the bonds they formed.
The third promise was perhaps the most personal: to travel to the Greek islands and deliver Chief Davey his book in person. Sadly, Chief Davey passed away near the completion of the book, making this final promise impossible to fulfil.
Chief Davey was more than just a leader; he embodied the Alberton Fire Department. His commitment, drive and passion ensured that the department remained one of the finest in the region. Under his command, the department modernised its equipment, improved training programmes and strengthened its emergency response capabilities. His vision was clear: Alberton Fire Department would always be prepared, professional and dedicated to protecting the community. As such, the book was named ‘Semper Paratus’.
Even after his tenure, Chief Davey’s influence continues to shape the department. His values, leadership style and commitment to excellence have been passed down through generations of firefighters. His legacy is not just in the policies he implemented or the fires he helped extinguish, it is in the spirit of service that every firefighter carries forward.
Chief Anthony Davey was and always will be, the heart and soul of Alberton Fire Department. His name is etched in the history of the service and his impact will never be forgotten.
Despite this heartbreaking loss, with the help of Sedric Prinsloo, a close friend and mentor within the Alberton Fire Department, two of the three promises were honoured. The book was completed and it now stands as a testament to Chief Davey’s leadership and the firefighters who served under him.
Though Chief Davey never got to hold his book, his spirit lives on in its pages. His dedication, fairness and unwavering commitment to the fire service remain etched in the hearts of those who knew him.
This book is more than just a collection of stories; it is a memorial, a tribute and a promise kept to a man who gave everything to his department.
Writing the legacy: The journey of documenting Alberton Fire Department
A race against time
The Alberton Fire Department’s history was written in just nine months but the process was far from easy. Like many authors, the journey was filled with challenges, gathering materials such as photographs, first-hand accounts and validating historical information proved to be an immense task.
Memories fade and as time passes, facts become obscured. To ensure accuracy, Sedric Prinsloo and I meticulously re-checked every detail, crossreferencing sources and verifying accounts. In doing so, we uncovered hidden stories, unknown facts about the department’s history, its vehicles and even the lives of Chief Geoffrey Davey and Chief Anthony Davey.
Unearthing forgotten history
Through our research, we discovered the only known copy of the original fire station in Alberton, a rare and invaluable piece of history. We also documented the only firefighter to die in the line of duty, a solemn reminder of the risks and sacrifices made by those in the service.
Additionally, we traced the design and construction of one of the largest fire engines in Southern Africa, a remarkable engineering feat that showcased the department’s commitment to innovation. Perhaps most intriguing was the historical connection between Alberton and Salisbury in Rhodesia, a link that had remained largely unknown until now.
A historic gathering
Not only was the book completed in record time but its launch event was a momentous occasion. Held at Meyers Plaas, the birthplace of Alberton, the event brought together 120 ex-firefighters and their families. Among them were two sole surviving firefighters from the original fire station, Transvaal Huis, a living testament to the department’s enduring legacy.
The book is more than just a collection of stories; it is a tribute, a memorial and a bridge between past and present. It ensures that the history, sacrifices and achievements of the Alberton Fire Department will never be forgotten. It is a written legacy for the firemen to pass on to their families so that the Alberton legacy is kept alive.
Not the end of the journey
Since completing the book, I have committed to write a further three books in the series relating to the Alberton Fire Department. There is so much more to the story of the Alberton Fire Department that needs to be told. The second book is near completion and will soon be available. Details will be made public on the Alberton Fire Department Facebook page
Visit this link to order your copy of this special edition.
