Springfield FD Raise Awareness and Money for Breast Cancer Research

If, heaven forbid, you are caught in a fire or other emergency this month, don’t be surprised to see your rescuers in pink shirts.

Throughout October, members of the Springfield Fire Department have swapped their standard issue blue work shirts for ones with distinctive pink hues. While the color switch is eye-catching, the change wasn’t driven by fashion but instead by the desire to support breast cancer research.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and the Springfield Firefighters, along with firefighters from across America, are supporting a nationwide campaign to raise money and awareness for the disease. Springfield FD will be sporting pink versions of their work shirts with an added breast cancer awareness logo. The firefighters purchased the shirts, with all proceeds benefiting the American Cancer Society.

In addition, the Springfield Firemen’s Benevolent Association Local #57 is offering the public opportunities to help fight breast cancer.  They are selling the shirts for $15. Proceeds will be directed towards sponsoring Fire Department Clerk Maria Forte in the "Walk for the Cure" on October 21, 2012 in NYC's Central Park.

The shirts will be available at Fire Headquarters and the Springfield Patriot Chamber of Commerce Festival and Car Show on Oct. 14.  If you would like to purchase a t-shirt for $15.00 or make a donation, please contact Maria Forte, FD Clerk at 973-912-2211 or maria.forte@springfield-nj.us.  

While neighboring fire departments, including Millburn, have taken part in similar efforts in past years, this is the first breast cancer awareness campaign for Springfield. Springfield Fire Deputy Chief Carlo Palumbo said that when firefighter Sal Cocuzzo proposed the idea, it was a natural fit for the department.

“It’s another way guys can reach out and help people,” Palumbo said. “It’s in their nature to help.”