Irmo, SC, September 12, 2025
News Summary
Dunbar Funeral Home in Irmo, SC, celebrated local heroes by hosting its inaugural cookout for First Responders. Coinciding with the anniversary of the September 11 attacks, the event sought to honor their dedication and commitment to the community. Attendees included members from multiple agencies, highlighting the importance of community support. The Managing Director expressed aspirations to make this an annual tradition to foster relationships and appreciation for First Responders.
Irmo, SC – Dunbar Funeral Home held its inaugural cookout for First Responders on a Wednesday afternoon, celebrating the bravery and commitment of local heroes. The event aimed to acknowledge the dedication that these individuals show in service to their community, specifically during challenging times over recent months.
The gathering took place in conjunction with the 24th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, a significant date that reminds the nation of the sacrifices made by over 400 First Responders and nearly 3,000 civilians. The occasion not only served as a commemoration but also as an opportunity for camaraderie among different service agencies.
First Responders from multiple organizations, including the Columbia Fire Department, Irmo Fire, Irmo Police, and the South Carolina Highway Patrol, attended the cookout. The event highlighted the impact of community support for these individuals who often find themselves facing unpleasant realities in the course of their work.
William Lynch, the Managing Director of Dunbar’s Dutch Fork Chapel, was a key figure at the event and voiced the importance of strengthening relationships with First Responders. Lynch, who has volunteered as a firefighter for ten years with the Columbia Fire Department, expressed a personal connection to the community due to his family’s history in service. He noted that these past months have been a particularly trying time for First Responders as they responded to various tragedies in the area.
Lynch’s goal is to make the cookout a yearly tradition, aiming to continue honoring and giving back to those who serve the public. Despite being the first of its kind for Dunbar Funeral Home, the cookout was reported as a success, setting a positive precedent for annual future gatherings.
This inaugural event reflects a growing trend where communities recognize the essential role of First Responders, offering appreciation and support during their often strenuous and thankless duties. As Lynch emphasized, moments of lightheartedness, like cookouts, can foster a sense of community that benefits both the First Responders and the residents they serve.
The success of the cookout serves as a reminder of the importance of community engagement in enhancing the lives of those who dedicate their careers to keeping their neighborhoods safe, and it is through initiatives like these that deeper relations can be established.
FAQ
What was the purpose of the cookout arranged by Dunbar Funeral Home?
The cookout aimed to honor and recognize the dedication and courage of First Responders in the Irmo community.
When was the cookout held?
The cookout was held on a Wednesday afternoon, coinciding with the 24th anniversary of the September 11 attacks.
Which organizations were represented at the event?
First Responders from the Columbia Fire Department, Irmo Fire Department, Irmo Police, and SC Highway Patrol attended the cookout.
Will the cookout be held annually?
Yes, William Lynch, the Managing Director of Dunbar’s Dutch Fork Chapel, expressed the desire to make the cookout an annual event.
What impact does the cookout aim to have on the First Responder community?
The event aims to build community relations and provide moments of lightheartedness for First Responders who often face challenging situations.
Key Features of the Cookout Event
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Type | Cookout for First Responders |
| Date | Wednesday afternoon (September 11 anniversary) |
| Location | Dunbar Funeral Home, Irmo, SC |
| Attendees | First Responders from Columbia Fire, Irmo Fire, Irmo Police, and SC Highway Patrol |
| Future Plans | Make it an annual event |
| Organizer | Dunbar Funeral Home |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- ABC Columbia News
- Wikipedia: First Responder
- ABC Columbia: Dunbar Cookout
- Google Search: First Responders Community Events
- ABC Columbia: Community Support
Author: STAFF HERE IRMO
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