VIDEO: Bernalillo County Firefighters are featured in a new documentary series that provides a front-row seat to the real work behind the sirens and showcases the department’s growth
BCFR Chief Zachary Lardy said, “It’s a positive service that we provide in the community, and it’s exciting to know where we came from as an organization. It’s kind of important for the next generation, for us to really lay that groundwork and to not lose that history and not lose all the hard work that came with the development of our organization.”
The documentary series, titled “Through Their Eyes: The History of Bernalillo County Fire & Rescue,” shares stories from individuals who shaped the department, whether they were volunteers or employees. The first three episodes focus on the North Region, with future episodes set to explore the East and South Regions within BCFR.
Retired Captain Steven Andrews said there were only nine paid firefighters when he was working. Now, there are almost 300.
“The volunteers were the main support for us, and they were extremely helpful back then. I think the United States has more volunteer fire departments than they do paid fire departments. So, they’re very important,” Andrews said.
The documentary will premiere tonight at the Hiland Theater on Central near San Mateo. It is open to the public, with doors opening at 6 p.m. and the premiere starting at 6:30 p.m.
