The Great Falls Volunteer Fire Department celebrated a milestone earlier this month. May 5 marked the 75th Anniversary of Fire Station 12.

The fire department was first established on May 5, 1942 as the Forestville Volunteer Fire Department.

Today, the new station, opened in 2011, houses 21 career firefighters and 40 volunteers. It is home to various rescue vehicles including two 4-wheel drive ambulances and two fire trucks that can hold 3,000 gallons of water each.

The longest serving member, Homer Johns, is set to retire in July 2018. The member of 46 years has served multiple positions but now resides as treasurer.

“It’s something that gets in your blood really. Giving back to the community,” said Johns.