Fire Games unite Washington County firefighters in competition and remembrance 

Washington County firefighters once again put their strength, speed, and teamwork to the test during the third annual Washington County Fire Games, held Saturday, Sept. 5, at the Possum Palace in Wausau.

Introduced by Greenhead District Chief Greg Cole in 2024, the event continues to highlight the dedication of local firefighters through friendly competition while honoring the lives lost on 9/11.

Opening ceremonies were led by Joe Phillips, who delivered remarks on the sacrifices made by firefighters during the September 11 attacks. Many participants wore commemorative shirts in tribute, some emblazoned with the number 343, representing the firefighters who lost their lives that day. The Vernon High School JROTC presented the colors to begin the evening’s events.

Judging was done by Washington County School Board member Milton Brown and Commissioner‑elect Leigh Cope, who helped oversee the four main competitions: PPE/SCBA Relay, Make‑a‑Line, Bucket Brigade, and Water Polo.

In the PPE/SCBA Relay, firefighters raced to don full gear with precision and speed. The BC Bats, represented by Ed Griffin and Matt Gothard, claimed first place.

The Make‑a‑Line challenge tested hose‑handling skills as teams connected and charged lines to knock down targets. The Bad Axes, Matt Mueller and Ben McWaters, took first place.

During the Bucket Brigade, competitors transferred water from a dump tank to a barrel using only small buckets. The BC Bats again came out on top, demonstrating efficiency and teamwork.

The final event, Water Polo, saw teams use charged hoses to move a suspended bucket across a cable, where the BC Bats secured their third event win of the day.

BC Bats earned first place overall, followed by the Bad Axes in second and the Smoke Show Duo, Ike Smith and Mike ”Cowboy” Owens, in third.

The Country Oaks Volunteer Fire Department headed up a kids’ area featuring miniature firefighter activities, including spraying a hose, giving younger attendees a hands‑on taste of the profession.

Organizers say the Fire Games continue to grow each year, strengthening community ties and celebrating the skill and dedication of Washington County’s firefighters.