For Millersville University sophomore Jake Speers, fire fighting isn’t just a calling—it’s in his blood. Originally from Portstewart, Northern Ireland, Jake grew up watching his father serve as a fire fighter for 36 years. Inspired by that legacy and the warm welcome he received in Millersville, Jake joined Blue Rock Fire Rescue in November, eager to give back to his new community.

Balancing his studies as a communications major and competing on Millersville’s golf team, Jake admits that time management is his biggest challenge. But for him, every moment is worth it. "The people keep me coming back," he says. "Being surrounded by like-minded individuals who support each other and push each other to be better—that’s what makes this place special."

Five months in, Jake has found a second family at Blue Rock and has no plans to stop volunteering anytime soon. His dedication to service and camaraderie is exactly what makes the fire rescue thrive.

During my time as chair of Blue Rock Fire Rescue, I witnessed something truly remarkable — four separate fire companies, each with its own traditions and challenges, coming together as one. It wasn’t easy. Some had people but little funding, others had resources but few volunteers. But with a shared vision and countless late nights, we built “One Team” with one mission: your safety.

I’ve seen firsthand how our volunteers live that mission. Whether saving a family’s barn or responding in someone’s darkest moment, they are making a difference every single day. In Washington Boro, where I live, I think of the generations who served before me — firefighters who once farmed tobacco just to buy an engine. The list of past house officers, line officers and former Washington Boro council members who built and sustained the station is too long to list. That spirit of sacrifice still drives Blue Rock today.

Now, we face the next chapter: a new firehouse to meet the growing needs of our community. This is about more than a building — it’s about giving our volunteers the tools, space, and support to continue protecting us for decades to come.

I hope you’ll join me in supporting this campaign. Every dollar is an investment in safety, service, and the future of Blue Rock Fire Rescue.

James (Jimmy) Knapp, Former Chair, Blue Rock Fire Rescue  

Emmaleen Regan is an outstanding fire fighter, student and leader whose dedication to service and learning is truly inspiring. As a fire fighter for Blue Rock Fire Rescue and a current Emergency Management master’s student at Millersville University, she has fully committed herself to both her education and her role in the fire service.

Her passion for fire fighting began after a summer internship working for FEMA at the U.S. Fire Administration, where she conducted research and gained valuable insight into the field. That experience led her to become a volunteer in September 2024. Since then, she has embraced the demanding balance of school, work, training and responding to calls with resilience and determination.

What stands out most about Emmaleen is her commitment to continuous learning and her appreciation for the knowledge and mentorship she gains from her fellow firefighters. “The experiences and mentorship I’ve gained keep me coming back,” she says. “The members here have become a second family that I look up to and learn from every day.”

Beyond firefighting, she serves as the graduate assistant for the Millersville women’s lacrosse team, further demonstrating her leadership and commitment. After graduation, she plans to continue volunteering and pursue a career in wildland firefighting. With her drive, adaptability and dedication to serving others, Emmaleen is a true asset to the fire service.

Blue Rock Fire Rescue has always been an essential part of keeping our community safe. Whether it’s a fire, gas leak, structural collapse, flood, elevator rescue, industrial accident, or environmental cleanup, they are there—calm, professional and ready to respond in our greatest moments of need.

But they are far more than simply a ‘volunteer fire department.’ The men and women of Blue Rock are well-trained, well-equipped, and led by professionals who have earned the trust and admiration of Manor Township residents. Behind them stands a strong community that believes in their mission—and I’m deeply grateful for all they do.

We are fortunate to have Blue Rock Fire Rescue. But we should never take them for granted. The need for a modern firehouse to support their efforts has never been greater. It’s up to all of us—through donations or volunteerism—to ensure they have the tools, space and resources to keep protecting our families, neighbors and businesses.

When disaster strikes, you can count on Blue Rock Fire Rescue. Now it’s our turn to be there for them.

Patrick Weidinger, Manor Township Resident