January 26 marks the 10 year anniversary of the arson fire that killed Toledo Firefighters Steve Machcinski and Jamie Dickman. Every year on this day, Toledoans come together to show their appreciation and support for the Toledo Fire and Rescue Department (TFRD) by delivering donuts, dinners and deserts to every TFRD station and donuts and lunches to every bureau throughout Toledo.
The effort, coordinated by Larry Cready of Toledo Strong, is a project to honor the memory of Mr. Machcinski and Mr. Dickman while reminding citizens of the risks and sacrifices firefighters face. This is the 10 year anniversary of their passing, and the recent death of well known and loved Toledo Firefighter Sterling “Butch” Rahe, has made this year’s event even more meaningful. To honor him, the event will incorporate the Springfield Township Fire Department where Mr. Butch served throughout his career in public service.
“Butch was one of a kind and we are excited that we can continue this annual tradition and be able to add the Springfield Township Fire Department in Butch’s honor. Toledo will always remember the ultimate sacrifices made by Steve and Jamie and the others before them. The department has always expressed a great amount of gratitude for this annual effort and helping to lift their spirits on such a somber day is our sole mission. I’m sure knowing that the community is appreciative and supports their work really makes a big difference,” said Mr. Cready.
“Our community continues to come together every year to help make this annual effort a success. The local bakeries and restaurants are always so supportive and without them, the community and our volunteers, we could never make this happen.”
