Several Cordillera residents have joined together in an effort to recognize volunteers from the BVFD for their support to our community. Spearheaded by Club Members, Terry Smith and Terry Weller, a monthly recognition dinner is being held at The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch. Once a month during the Club’s popular “Goldrush” night, a Club Member will host a fireman for dinner as a special thank you for all their efforts. This effort allows for both the BVFD and residents to get to know each other as well as supporting the fundraising efforts of the 2015 SHINDIG benefitting the BVFD.
Tlaloc J. (T.J.) Garcia
Title/Role with the BVFD:
As Building Manager for the Bergheim VFD, area community organizations contact me to reserve the fire station for meetings. I developed a “Use of Bergheim VFD” policy which was approved by the board. This policy is provided to organizations to complete, sign agreeing to the policy and return to me. I am also responsible for the maintenance and keeping the station clean, including removing trash and recycling.
Years with BVFD:
I became a member of the Bergheim VFD in 2009 before it officially began operating.
“Day Job”
I retired with nearly 37 years of Federal Government Service in Acquisitions and Management. This includes 4 years of military with a tour in Vietnam. I am a Life Time member of the Veterans of Foreign War.
Favorite part about working with the BVFD:
My favorite part is the satisfaction of giving back to my community. This may sound corny, but I’ve been blessed and it’s important to help those in need.
Why did you choose to volunteer with the BVFD?
I heard they needed volunteers. I consider it an investment in protecting our community. Plus the fire station is less than a mile from my home.
Least favorite part of your role with the BVFD?
The least favorite part of my role with the Bergheim VFD is having to clean rest rooms. But it’s all part of keeping “our home” clean.
What’s one thing that people don’t know about being a volunteer Fire Fighter?
One thing that people may not know about being a volunteer fire fighter is that it takes many hours of training and continuing education to meet the ever-changing required qualifications. There are also some medical qualifications needed to be a First Responder. Finally, it helps to be physically fit to be a fire fighter and first responder. Please keep in mind that there are a variety of jobs within the volunteer fire department that can be performed by those of us that are not physically fit to fight fires. All volunteers are welcomed.
Stephanie Kiser
Title/Role with the BVFD:
I’m just a firefighter, I haven’t been there a lot lately because of school but I normally go on calls and help with cleaning the station and checking trucks.
Years with BVFD:
I’ve been with Bergheim since I was 16 in 2010 but I wasn’t officially voted in until 2011 when I turned 18.
“Day Job”:
I am a student at the University of Mary Hardin- Baylor in Belton, TX and in the process of getting a Bachelor of fine art in studio art. I am trying to transfer down to a School in San Antonio so I can continue being active in the Bergheim fire department.
Favorite part about working with the BVFD:
I love helping people it gives me a new view on life and makes me feel like I’m making a difference in the world. Plus I love working with everyone they all feel like family to me.
Why did you choose to volunteer with the BVFD?
I had friends who were at Bergheim and they asked me to come to a meeting and I had fun so I kept coming back even though the department is actually pretty far for me to drive.
Least favorite part of your role with the BVFD?
I hate cleaning up the bugs that tend to invade the bays during the summer then conveniently die every where and in everything.
What’s one thing that people don’t know about being a volunteer Fire Fighter?
People don’t really know that volunteers actually fight the fire most people I’ve talked to think that we just show up and work till a paid department show up.
Brian Coyle
Title/Role with the BVFD:
Probie (Probate) for the past 10 months at BVFD
“Day Job”
General Manager of A-1 Red Whatie and Blue Storage
Favorite part about working with the BVFD:
I love the brotherhood/sisterhood of the FD. The constant learning and training keeps me coming back. I chose to volunteer with BVFD to help the community in the area. To be a part of something special.
David J. Norman
Title/Role with the BVFD:
Bergheim Volunteer Firefighter
Years with BVFD:
Three years – badge number 4
“Day Job”
Owner of “Rain Water Harvesting Werks”. We specialize in rainwater capturing.
Favorite part about working with the BVFD:
Helping to raise money for the Bergheim Fire Department.
Why did you choose to volunteer with the BVFD?
To become a productive member of the community.
Least favorite part of your role with the BVFD?
No least favorite!!
