01/01/2026
Final Words
100 Years of Service | Lapel Volunteer Fire Department | Lapel Stony Creek Fire Department | Lapel Stony Creek Twp. Fire Territory | Now South Madison Fire Territory
Good evening, everyone,
Today, we gather not to say goodbye, but to honor a legacy, a legacy built on courage, sacrifice, and an unshakable commitment to service. One hundred years ago, the Lapel Volunteer Fire Department was born from the hands and hearts of neighbors who simply wanted to protect their own. Since then, under many names, Lapel Volunteer Fire Department, the Lapel Stony Creek Fire Department, the Lapel Stony Creek Township Fire Territory this department has carried out its mission with unwavering pride.
For a century, our firefighters, EMTs, and volunteers have answered every call from the middle of the night to the heat of the day with one goal: to protect this town, this township, and every soul within our reach. And they did it not for recognition, not for praise, but because it was the right thing to do.
Fifteen years ago, I had the honor of becoming a part of this incredible family. I’ve stood shoulder to shoulder with some of the bravest men and women I’ve ever known. I’ve watched this department grow, evolve, and meet challenges head-on and I’m proud to say I was a part of that journey.
To every past and present member thank you. Thank you for your time, your sweat, your sacrifice, and your love for this community. Whether you served one year or thirty, you helped build something truly special.
We have not failed. We have not been lost in history. We have evolved.
Today marks a new chapter, the merging of our department, into the South Madison Fire Territory.This is not an end. This is progress. This is the continuation of our mission with stronger resources, broader reach, and an even deeper commitment to serve. We are ensuring that the residents of Lapel, Stony Creek Township, Jackson Township, and all of southern Madison County will continue to receive the absolute best fire and EMS services possible.
Let us be clear, our legacy is not erased. It is etched into the foundation of what comes next.
I love this department. I love this community. And I am endlessly proud of every single person who has worn our patch. We built something powerful — together — and now we pass the torch into a brighter future.
So tonight, as we close this chapter, we do so with our heads held high and our hearts full. Here's to 100 years of honor, and to the next 100 of even greater service.
Thank you, and God bless you all.
Jason Renner
Fire Chief Car 270
Lapel Stony Creek Twp. Fire Territory
