Founding and Early Leadership (1968)
In March 1968, approximately 50 community members gathered at Wall High School to address the growing need for fire and rescue services in southeastern Tom Green County. Following a thoughtful discussion and unanimous vote, the Wall Volunteer Fire Department (Wall VFD) was officially established in November 1968.
The department’s first elected officers were:
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C.B. Hohensee – President
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Daniel Strube – Vice President
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Frank Gerngross, Jr. – Secretary-Treasurer
First Equipment and Operations (1969)
By March 1969, the WVFD had acquired its first firefighting equipment: a 1942 GMC pumper and a brand-new 1969 Chevrolet 1,000-gallon combination brush and pumper truck. The 1969 Chevrolet, a testament to the department's commitment to maintenance and care, remains in active service today.
At that time, the department also elected its first line officers:
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John Schwartz – Fire Chief
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James Kadlacek and Ronnie Bubenik – Assistant Fire Chiefs
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James Schniers – Captain
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Kenneth Schwartz – Lieutenant
A Tragic Loss in the Line of Duty (July 1969)
The summer of 1969 was marked by extreme heat and drought, resulting in numerous fires across Tom Green County. On July 15, 1969, at approximately 10:00 a.m., Wall VFD was dispatched to assist with a grass fire in the western part of the county. Though the department was still new, its members were committed to serving with courage and resolve.
During the incident, the department's truck ran out of water as the fire advanced. While attempting to retreat, the vehicle struck a stump, causing firefighters Kenneth Holubec and Daniel Strube to be thrown from the back of the truck. Tragically, Kenneth Holubec lost his life in the accident—a solemn reminder of the profound risks undertaken by volunteer firefighters. Despite this heartbreaking loss, the department remained steadfast in its mission to serve and protect the community.
Transition to Sole Fire Provider (1987)
In 1987, Tom Green County officials informed the department that the City of San Angelo would no longer provide fire protection services to the county. As a result, Wall VFD became the sole fire protection provider for the southeastern portion of the county.
Although financial resources were limited, the department acquired second-hand equipment that, while considered obsolete by other departments’ standards, enabled Wall VFD to continue delivering essential emergency services. This transition underscored the department’s resilience and unwavering dedication to the community it serves.
Present Day Operations
Wall VFD has been blessed with several grants and generous donations, resulting in brand new fire apparatus, bunker gear, self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), Jaws of Life, and a brand new fire station!