Everyone in attendance for the grand opening of the new Joaquin Volunteer Fire Department Central Station participated in the "Push-in" ceremony.
October 27, 2025 - The Joaquin Volunteer Fire Department (JVFD) proudly held the grand opening and open house of its new Central Station at 10am, October 25, located on 10777 Highway 84, next to the U.S. Post Office. The milestone event marked a significant moment in the department’s history, celebrating decades of service, community partnership, and growth.
The ceremony began with Fire Chief Jeremy Boyett welcoming guests and recognizing the department’s leadership past and present. Chief Boyett honored former Chief Travis Rodgers, the department’s first fire chief, as well as past Chief Steve Cockrell, an active member, and the surviving family members of the late Chiefs Elmer Mathews, Mike Wood, and Perry Pugh. Mrs. Donna Pugh, wife of the late Chief Pugh, was among those in attendance.
Pictured are family of Mike Woods (from left): Carsen McFarland (granddaughter), Jennifer Whittlesey (daughter), Mary Grace Whittlesey (granddaughter), Lavonne Wood (wife) and Joaquin Volunteer Fire Chief Jeremy Boyett.
Brother Joe Walker of Logansport Missionary Baptist Church led the invocation and a special blessing for the new station. Assistant Chief Stephen Ewing followed by sharing the rich history of the Joaquin Volunteer Fire Department with attendees.
Chief Boyett then presented a commemorative plaque to the Public Safety Corporation, whose support made the new facility possible. Members of the committee recognized include President Rusty Wilson, Vice President Rodney Dean, Phil Worsham, Vance Jordan, and the late Jay Dee Cockrell. A heartfelt thanks was also extended to Cornerstone Construction and owner Jeff Dean for their integral role in constructing the new station.
Pictured are family of Elmer Mathews (from left): Joaquin Volunteer Fire Chief Jeremy Boyett, Rodney Mathews (son), Denise Mathews (daughter-in-law), and Amber Mathews (granddaughter) holding Cooper Deshotel (great-grandson).
In keeping with firefighting tradition, the ceremony concluded with a “push-in” event, where JVFD members and community guests joined together to roll Engine 1 into the new station, symbolizing the official beginning of operations at the facility. Guests were invited to sign the station’s guest book and enjoy refreshments, including a commemorative cake. The department also hosted a hamburger plate fundraiser, adding to the festive community spirit.
As the late Chief Mike Wood often said, “A good time was had by all.” The Joaquin Volunteer Fire Department extends sincere gratitude to the citizens, partners, and organizations whose continued support makes their mission possible.
Pictured are (from left): Donna Pugh (wife of Perry Pugh) and Joaquin Volunteer Fire Chief Jeremy Boyett.
“We’re proud of our history, grateful for our community, and excited for the future,” said Chief Boyett. “This new station will help us serve Joaquin and the surrounding area for generations to come.”
Pictured are family of Jay Dee Cockrell (from left): Kade Cockrell (son), Jodi Cockrell (daughter), Selisha Cockrell (wife), and Joaquin Volunteer Fire Chief Jeremy Boyett.
Pictured are (from left): Rusty Wilson, Public Safety Corporation Board President; and Joaquin Volunteer Fire Department Chief Jeremy Boyett.
Pictured are (from left): Joaquin Volunteer Fire Chief Jeremy Boyett and former Chief Travis Rodgers.
Pictured are (from left): Joaquin Volunteer Fire Chief Jeremy Boyett and past Chief, and current member, Steve Cockrell.
