Fire Department GaragePictured, the Duenweg Volunteer Fire Department, located at 303 Wolf Drive.
Phone: 417-623-7408
Fax: 417-623-3654
303 Wolfe Dr.
PO Box 488
Duenweg, MO 64841

History of the Duenweg Fire Department

The Duenweg Volunteer Fire Department (DVFD) has a storied history that began in 1958 with the visionary leadership of its first fire chief, Lester Watson. Since then, the department has evolved significantly, with a remarkable legacy of service and dedication to the community.

In January 1960, Don Johnson took the helm as Fire Chief and remained a steadfast leader until 1998, shaping the department’s culture and operational effectiveness. Following him, Allyn Reding took charge in 1998. His tenure was marked by a passionate commitment to public safety until his untimely passing in 2019, when Howard Reding stepped up to lead the department.

A pivotal moment in the DVFD’s journey came in August 1984 when it became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation, governed by a dedicated Board of Directors. Just two years later, the Duenweg Fire Protection District was established, representing not only the cities of Duenweg and Duquesne but also the unincorporated regions of Jasper County. Through a vital partnership, the district signed a contract with the DVFD to deliver exceptional emergency services throughout the area.

The DVFD found a new home in June 1991, moving into its impressive building at 303 Wolfe Dr. This facility reflects the growth and aspirations of the department. In those early days, the DVFD began with just 19 volunteer members, handling an average of 75 emergency calls per year. Fast forward to 2013, and the department had expanded its ranks to 27 volunteer firefighters and first responders, supported by 2 paid staff, 5 part-time members, and 3 residents. Together, they responded to an astonishing 915 calls, illustrating their unwavering commitment to community safety.

Beyond firefighting, the DVFD broadens its impact by providing essential EMS first responder services, equipped with Basic Life Support gear, as well as Haz-Mat response, water rescues, extrication, search efforts for lost individuals, and engaging public education programs. They even offer station tours, welcoming community members to learn about their vital work.

The Duenweg Volunteer Fire Department is more than just a firefighting unit; it’s a cornerstone of the community, proving time and again that courage, commitment, and community spirit can save lives and strengthen bonds.

fireDeptFleetToday our fleet includes the following:

  • 1997 KME Engine
  • 2001 KME Engine/Rescue
  • 1967 American Fire Apparatus Engine
  • 1991 LTI 75′ Ladder Truck
  • 2000 GMC 2,000 gallon Tanker
  • 1980 Chevrolet Brush Truck
  • 1995 GMC Brush Truck
  • 2001 Chevrolet Service Truck
  • 1986 Chevrolet Brush Truck
  • Zodiac Water Rescue Boat

Upcoming Events and News

  • Please look for tips concerning fire safety in City’s Newsletter under the City Documents Tab located in the upper right hand corner of this page.
  • Everyone needs to look at your homes and make sure they are numbered.  It is very important that we can see these especially while responding to an emergency.
  • If you have a storm shelter, make sure to have it Cad flagged. Come by the Duenweg Fire Department to fill out a form with the location of your shelter. These will be placed in the Cad Dispatch database so that in the event of an emergency, your shelter can be located.

Are you interested in becoming a member of DVFD?

fireDeptPatchJust come by the station and fill out on the application. Some of the requirements are:

  • Must pass a background check
  • Physical condition
  • Be willing to commit time to the Department for training and other activities
  • Have a valid driver license
  • Proof of insurance