09/08/2026
Last week, we had the privilege of welcoming a group of German firefighters to the Fort Wayne Fire Department as part of our Sister City Exchange. 🇩🇪🤝🇺🇸
The visit provided an opportunity to share more than just our fire service—it gave our guests a firsthand look at how we operate within our public safety system here in Fort Wayne.
They experienced a shift at one of our fire stations, saw firsthand what life is like around the station, and spent time at our training site participating in room burns and seeing the training our firefighters complete to prepare for the challenges they face.
But some of the most meaningful moments happened away from the training ground.
There was time to sit around the table, break bread together, share stories, compare traditions, and learn that while our equipment, procedures, and terminology may be different, the brotherhood/sisterhood of the fire service is remarkably similar.
And, just like any good firehouse experience, the time off the clock was just as important—enjoying each other’s company, sharing laughs, and building friendships that extend well beyond the visit.
The Sister City Exchange is a great reminder that the fire service has a language of its own. Different countries, different systems, different ways of doing things—but a shared commitment to serving others and taking care of one another.
Michael, Goran, Felix, Moritz, Christian, and Jurgen -you will always have a place to stay here.
We’re grateful for the opportunity to welcome our German brothers and sisters to Fort Wayne and look forward to continuing to build these relationships for years to come. 🚒
