Pershing Township is located in the northwest part of Jackson County in Southern Indiana. The township covers about 31 square miles and had about 1,300 residents. The township consists mostly of rural housing, agricultural operations, and forested areas.
The department provides fire protection for residences in the township as well as wilderness fire protection for areas of Hoosier National Forest.
The department also provides Basic Life Support (non-transporting) service for all of Pershing Township and the northern half of Owen and all of Salt Creek Townships.
The department utilizes an all volunteer force and has no paid employees.
Our Approach
History
The Pershing Township Volunteer Fire Department was incorporated in May of 1959. The original fire station was located at North Union and West Second Street. Built in 1959, this building was added onto twice over the years to house additional equipment and trucks as the department grew.
Our Story
Today
The fire department moved to it's current location, the location of the former Freetown Elementary school, in 2012. The fire station today consists of a newly constructed truck bay and a classroom, gymnasium, kitchen and restrooms from the former school.
Meet the Firefighters
Pershing Township Volunteer Fire Department currently rosters 20 volunteer firefighters.
Ben R.
Chief
Ben joined the department about the time he was old enough to walk. When he's not volunteering with the department he works his full time job as a Deputy on the Jackson County Sheriff's Department and spends time with his wife and two children.
Kaleb M.
Deputy Chief
Kaleb also joined the fire department before he could actually say, "firefighter." Kaleb is also a full time firefighter with the Seymour Fire Department. He enjoys spending time with his wife and working on his new home.
Sparky
The Fire Dog
Sparky can dance and play the electric guitar. Today Sparky is busy appearing in numerous music videos spreading fire safety messages.
Seven Out of Ten Firefighters and Emergency Responders are Volunteers
and Pershing Township needs more volunteers like you. We invite you to join a family that'll always have your back and train you up to serve our community in ways few can. We may even give you our secret fish breading.