IN REMEMBRANCE

Edgar L. "Hank" Barr, Jr.

August 29, 1922 - January 12, 2009

Edgar L. "Hank" Barr Jr. was a founding member of the Rural Security Fire Company in May of 1955.  Hank served as the Vice President of the Company that year, and offered his home as a meeting place for the organization during it's inaugural period. He was elected President of the Company in 1956 and held the office for that  year.  Hank was voted in as Company Chief Director in 1959. He held that position that year, as well as several other years to follow. Hank also served as Assistant Chief, Trustee and Fire Police over his years of service.  He was a life member of the Rural Security Fire Company, Glenn Lebanon Fire Company, Lebanon County Fireman's Association and Lebanon County Fire Chiefs Association, where he also served as President.

Hank was also a member of the Lebanon American Legion.  He proudly served his country in the United States Army from December 1942 to December 1945 with the 924th Field Artillery Battalion,
Company "C" of the 99th Division.

In 2005, the company celebrated its 50th Anniversary, and Hank was honored for his 50 years of service at that time.

 Hank receiving his plaque for 50 years of service from
President George Gettler

Congressman Tim Holden was on hand for the festivities
and congratulated Hank for his continued dedication.

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Hank was a dedicated member of the Company for almost 54 years from its start in 1955.  Hank lived in the community for many years and was affectionately referred to as the "Mayor of Reinoehlsville" by the members of the company.  He was always at the station helping with almost any project or fundraiser, and was looked upon as being "The Foreman", but he was never afraid to get dirty and help out at any time, no matter what the task.

"The Foreman" supervising the building
addition with Treasurer Melanie Gettler.

Hard at work with Deputy Chief
Barry Kendall removing old siding.

     After the addition, Hank went to work
assembling the new gear racks. 

Chief Engineer Tony Ill, Chief George Gettler, Assistant Chief Darrin Heist, Firefighters Gary Boyer, Jeremy Wenrich,
Austin Freeman, Billy Fair and Dave Kreider
Christmas Party, December 27, 2008
 

Hank's devotion to the community and to the fire service was an inspiration to many that passed through the doors of the Company over the many years.  He was a comrade, a leader and a friend to many.  As we remember him one year later, he is still sadly missed by all that knew him.