Kötzersricht Fire Department celebrates volunteerism and solidarity at the ceremony!

Kötzersricht Fire Department celebrates volunteerism and solidarity at the ceremony!

On November 4th, 2025, the Kötzersricht fire department gathered in the Hofladen-Gaststüberl Ulrich in Laubhof for a celebratory evening of camaraderie. The event began with a moving memorial service in the parish church of St. Jakobus, led by Pastor i. R. Hans-Peter Heindl was celebrated. Heindl praised the tireless sacrifice of the firefighters, who always work for the good of the community.

The chairman of the fire department, Franz-Josef Rauch, welcomed numerous guests of honor and members and looked back on the highlights of the past year. He paid particular attention to the club's anniversary and participation in the market festival. In his speech, he thanked all members, especially the officers, for their commitment and cohesion within the fire department, which for many represents a positive example for the entire community. This was also underlined by the words of Commander Markus Weiß, who presented the upcoming new construction project for the fire brigade equipment shed and praised the help of his comrades.

Honors and words of thanks

One of the highlights of the evening was the honoring of long-standing members. The Kötzersricht fire department congratulated:

• Karl Erras für 70 Jahre
• Josef Siegert für 60 Jahre
• Franz-Josef Rauch für 40 Jahre
• Christoph Ulrich für 25 Jahre

These honors illustrate the importance of voluntary work, which is of central importance for many people in Germany. Around 29 million citizens, around 40% of the population over the age of 14, regularly get involved, especially in areas such as firefighting and accident rescue, as deutschland.de reports.

District fire councilor Christof Strobl emphasized the importance of voluntary work and comradely solidarity. For Mayor Bernhard Lindner, firefighters are “everyday saints” who tirelessly serve society. The presence of county leaders underscored the greater value the fire service has in the community.

Shared sense of responsibility

The Kötzersricht fire department not only stands for fire protection, but also for the cohesion of the Kötzersricht, Kümmersbuch and Laubhof districts. Michael Iberer, deputy chairman of the Hahnbach cultural committee, praised the fire department for its active participation in events and commitment to local club life.

Finally, chairman Franz-Josef Rauch closed the ceremony with the words: “One for all, all for one – to the glory of God, to the defense of our neighbor!” This message embodies the sense of community that is central to the work of the Kötzersricht fire department and to many volunteers in Germany who support each other.