It is with heavy hearts that we report the passing of our brother firefighter, Geoffrey Drum, on 12-20-24. Geoffrey was a life member and a familiar face around New Bloomfield and, of course, around Station 8.

Geoff's first encounter with the fire company was in the fall of 1977, when he was just 7 years old. Geoff went out with his dogs on a Thursday evening and became lost. The fire company and many community members were called for search party. Jeff was later found with his one dog; maybe this is where Geoff's love for NBFD came about.

When Geoff joined the fire company, the members took Geoff under their wings and let him help after calls, like getting the rigs back in service or at events. Often he would ride his bike to the station and find the broom to sweep the floor, go alone to pump primers, or tag along to the fire expo in Harrisburg with members. Geoff went years without ever missing a fire company meeting. At the March meeting, we would always celebrate his birthday, singing happy birthday and enjoying the cake provided by his family.

Geoffrey will be dearly missed around Station 8, as he always had a big smile and helped where he could.

NBFD would like to offer our condolences to his family.