In 1972 hurricane Agnes ravaged the area leaving Occoquan and the Woodbridge area virtually under water and the taking out the Route 1 Bridge. The headlines in the Potomac News “Botts fire station was Occoquan’s refuge” (thank you Ernest). In 2011 a storm forms in the Gulf of Mexico and dumps rain on the US, from the Gulf Coast to New England, leaving more than 12 inches of rain in Woodbridge in a 24-hour period.
Once again the members of the Occoquan-Woodbridge-Lorton Volunteer Fire Department rose to the occasion assisting or making more than two-dozen water rescues. Headlines may not have made reference to OWL, but I can tell you that the citizens, other fire departments, the police department and local politicians all took note of the services you provided Thursday night.
On September 11 2001, within moments of the worst attacks on U.S. soil, the members of this great department left their jobs, said good-by to their families, stopped what they were doing and headed for our three stations. Every fire truck, ambulance and special piece was staffed and on the road. Our units were sent north to backfill other fire and rescue stations. Eventually, through continued station transfers and dispatches, some units end up at the Pentagon. Once again our members performed admirably to say the least, no matter what their role was that fateful day.
I could go on and on with examples of events where our membership performed above the rest and demonstrated acts of heroism during natural disasters, local emergencies and even on “routine incidents”. Among all of this tragedy, there is a common theme. That common theme is the bravery, courage, dedication, honor, loyalty and sense of community service that has been displayed by the members of this department from its inception in 1938 to today. It is our job to pass these traits on to the generations that will follow us. It is our job to maintain the legacy started and carried forward by many before us. It is also our job to continue our commitments and maintain the trust of our community.
Although today is a tragic reminder of the events that unfolded ten years ago, let today also be your inspiration to continue the legacy of the greatest fire department and the greatest family anyone could ever expect to be a part of.
Let me be the first to thank you for your service, commitment and dedication to our department, our family and most importantly our community. Your commitment and professionalism are appreciated more than words can ever express.
Sincerely,
James McAllister
Department Chief
Occoquan-Woodbridge-Lorton Volunteer Fire Department
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Prince William County government offices and facilities will be open on Wednesday, January 8, 2025. Still, employees can take unscheduled leave or engage in unscheduled telework due to current weather conditions.
While the county remains open for business, residents are encouraged to check for the latest updates on facility-specific operations by visiting pwcva.gov/emergency.
Some county services may be impacted by the weather. Before visiting a county facility, call ahead or check the county’s website.
Several schools in our region have announced closures and delays for Wednesday, January 8, 2025, due to inclement weather and hazardous road conditions.
Fredericksburg Regional Transit (FXBGO!) announced that transit service, which was suspended on Tuesday due to winter weather, is expected to resume at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 8. Residents relying on public transportation are encouraged to plan accordingly and check for updates before traveling.
In addition to transit disruptions, the city’s trash collection schedule has been adjusted. Monday’s missed routes resumed today, and services will shift forward by one day for the remainder of the week. Tuesday’s trash will be collected on Wednesday, Wednesday’s on Thursday, and so on.
The City of Fredericksburg’s Public Works Department continues its efforts to clear snow and ice from roadways. Primary collector roads are reported to be in good condition, but some residential and collector roads remain compacted with snow and ice. Crews are applying plowing and chemical treatments as necessary to address these areas. As temperatures drop overnight, roads may refreeze, and drivers are urged to exercise caution when traveling.
The City also reminds property owners and occupants of their obligation to clear sidewalks adjacent to their properties. Snow and ice must be removed within 12 hours after snowfall ends, or by noon the following day if precipitation occurs overnight or on a Sunday. Sand or abrasives may be used if removal isn’t feasible. Residents and businesses are also responsible for clearing ADA access ramps to ensure safe pedestrian passage.
The animals below are STRAYS turned into the PWC Animal Services Center between 01/03/2025 – 01/06/2025. We post photos of stray animals brought to the Center a couple of times each week to help owners find their missing pets.
Start 2024 on the right foot by prioritizing your mental health and well-being. At Peaceful Mind Solutions, we understand how challenging life can be—whether it’s managing stress from work, family dynamics, or navigating the complexities of the world around us. Our team is here to help you create balance and find the peace you deserve.
We’re offering a free 15-minute consultation to help you explore how therapy can work for you. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, looking for support, or just want to talk things through, this is the perfect opportunity to take that first step toward a healthier, happier you.
Scheduling is simple and convenient. Choose the option that works best for you:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra, this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
Featuring:
