In 1952, Chief John D. Ragsdale of the Nashville Fire Department organized the Nashville Fire Buff Club. After many years since the beginning, the mission of our club has remained the same: To serve Nashville's First Responders.
We now provide Rehab Services to all First Responders including Fire, Police, EMS, OEM and any other First Responder in need of rehab, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. We are staffed with 100% Volunteers and operate ONLY on donations that we receive.
Currently, Box 55 responds to all working fires and by special request to other emergency situations such as search and rescue, SWAT, Haz-Mat, major MVA’s and other extended operations. Box 55 is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization of volunteers and operates solely on donations and contributions. None of our staff or administration receive any monetary compensation. All monies are spent on rehab supplies and needs.
Currently we have two response vehicles in our fleet. Each truck is equipped with a microwave, coffee makers, misting fans, tents, folding chairs, propane heaters, several coolers with cold drinks, snacks, and more.
Box 55 members are alerted by pager and respond 24 hours, 7 days a week when needed. Based on protocol, one or two members drive the rehab unit to the incident scene, while other members will arrive in their personal vehicle.
A monthly meeting is held every third Thursday at various Nashville Fire Department Stations to address the needs of the organization and to provide training. Visitors are always welcome to attend. Check the events tab for further information.
As the demands and definitions of rehab continue to change, Box 55 is dedicated to changing and growing with them. Our goal—to respond quickly when called and to provide rehabilitation and re-hydration to first responders—remains the same.