The Fraternal Order of Leatherheads Society (FOOLS) is an organization that was started in 1995 by a group of Orlando firefighters. They saw that the Brotherhood and traditional values of the fire service were missing in Florida. Since 1995 and seven members (now known as the “Founding FOOLS”), this Brotherhood has grown to over seven thousand strong. There are Chapters all over the world, with new Chapters starting almost every day.
In January of 2003 the New England FOOLS Chapter was organized. We started with about a half dozen founding members from three states. We are growing daily, and represent many departments in the three Northeastern New England states.
The FOOLS are about the Brotherhood and Tradition that the fire service is based on. When we are in our gear, and trying to make our way down the dark hot hallway, we are all the same. All that matters is that you have my back, and I have yours. We do not care if you are a chief, a recruit, a volunteer or a career firefighter, a male, a female, or the color of your skin. All we ask is that you are true to your Brother and Sister Firefighter, and to the fire service.
The FOOLS are not a political organization. We will not be involved in union or management causes. We are about taking care of our Brother and Sister Firefighters in their time of need. We have been involved with fundraisers, charity events, and helping disadvantaged children receive gifts for Christmas. We believe that this is what being a member of the FOOLS is all about.
The New England FOOLS also believe in providing real fire training at a fair price, or free if possible. We believe that it is our duty to be as well trained as we possibly can. This can only keep us, and our Brothers and Sisters safe on the fire ground. We owe it to ourselves, our Brothers and Sisters, their families, and to the citizens we protect.
We believe in Pride: Pride in our Departments, in our stations, in our apparatus, and Pride in ourselves.
We believe in honoring and remembering our Brothers and Sisters that have gone before us.
WE WILL NEVER FORGET.
LONG LIVE THE FOOLS.
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