Tom Wood has seen a lot in his nearly 50-years with the Libby Volunteer Fire Department.
Battling life threatening blazes and overseeing station expansions, the former fire chief ushered the department from a small town brigade to one of the highest-rated fire fighting units in the state.
“It had been a dream of mine,” said Wood while reflecting on his career. “I get about half sentimental thinking about it.”
Wood stepped down from his post in early April. While no longer head of the department, the veteran white hat will stay on with the force for a few months to help newly-elected Chief Steve Lauer with administrative duties.
Fire hall records indicate that Wood began his service in 1971, but he will tell you he started responding to calls much earlier. Growing up, Wood admired his father, who volunteered with and eventually headed the local brigade. Hoping to join in on the action as a child, Wood would run the half-a-block from his home to the firehouse whenever he heard the sirens ring.