RAPID CITY, S.D. – The North Haines Volunteer Fire Department is inviting the public to celebrate its 50th Anniversary on Saturday, June 6. The community event will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the North Haines Fire Station, located at 1290 Country Road in Rapid City.

Established in 1976, the department has provided volunteer fire and emergency services to the North Elk Fire Protection District for five decades. What began as a small, rural volunteer department has grown into a modern emergency response agency while maintaining its core commitment to service, community and volunteerism.

A special program will begin at 1 p.m. to honor the history of the department, its accomplishments and the volunteers who have served the Rapid City area over the years. South Dakota Governor Rohden is scheduled to attend the celebration alongside many other local officials.

The program will also recognize the fire chiefs who have guided the department throughout its 50-year history, including the founding leaders and the current fire chief, Matt Thompson.

“Fifty years is an important milestone for any organization built by volunteers,” Fire Chief Matt Thompson said. “This celebration honors the firefighters, families, and community members who have supported the department through the years. We invite everyone to join us as we celebrate our history and look toward the future.”

The event is free and open to the public, and refreshments will be provided throughout the day.

The North Haines Volunteer Fire Department serves the North Elk Fire Protection District and nearby Rapid City areas with fire suppression, rescue and emergency response services. For over 50 years, its volunteers have remained committed to protecting lives, property and natural resources.