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When we first found out that Chief was considering retiring from the Fire Service, our thoughts was how could we as a department acknowledge him for all that he has done not only for our Fire Department but also for the community he has served for many years.
We have never met someone so passionate than Chief McCollum. We could easily say that he definitely has a heart of gold when it comes to serving others. I first met Chief McCollum back in 2007 when I took his EMT class at Tacoma Community College. There was something about him that made me decide that I wanted to pursue a career in the Fire Service. I remember him saying to me to never give up my hopes and dreams. That resonated with me for many years. Well 13 years later I am living my hopes and dreams thanks to him.
He always believed in people and if there was any struggle you could always count on Chief McCollum to guide and help you. We realized later in life that a Chief’s job is never over. As a small volunteer Fire Department, Chief has always been there through the thick and thin even if it required him responding solo to the call. He has made a huge impact in my life as I am sure he has made in yours.
No matter where he would go people always seemed to recognize him whether from a call he has been too or perhaps a CPR class he taught for many years. Chief McCollum has always treated every citizen with the upmost respect. I have never known a Fire Chief that has made frequent visits to check in on people in his district to make sure they are doing good. Chief McCollum has no idea that we are planning this Surprise gift to present him during the Award’s Banquet this coming January.
We thought that it would be a wonderful experience to send him and his wife to visit his heritage in Scotland as a retirement surprise. This once in a lifetime trip will include business class airfare, room and board, excursions and money for food. We have estimated this dream trip will cost approximately $15,000.
We are looking for cash donations or even miles to help keep the cost down. I know that there are many of you who’s lives have been impacted by Chief McCollum and would like to contribute to his farewell gift. The goal is to raise the money by December 31st. Please share with others you know that may want to contribute but keep this discreet as Chief McCollum has no idea.
We are also going to put together a photo book so if you have any pictures or stories you would like to include please email them to me at lszarko0210@gmail.com.
Thank You!
Lieutenant Szarko
Brown’s Point/Dash Point Fire Department
https://www.gofundme.com/Fire-Chief-Farewell
