Museum of Scottish Fire Heritage

22/05/2026

We are always happy to welcome firefighters from around the world to the museum. Often people will provide us more information about them and their fire departments. Today we’re highlighting Robert W from Garland, Texas.

Your Fire Service Details

Garland Fire Department, Garland, Texas. Retired, 20-year firefighter / paramedic

About Your Patch

The Garland Fire Department patch has the Maltese cross in front of two crossed fire axes. On the left of the cross is the United States flag, and on the right is the Texas flag. Both are at equal heights because the Texas flag is the only flag in the U.S. that can be flown at the same height as the American flag. This is because Texas was its own republic before joining the Union in 1845. At the top of the cross is the year 1889, which was when the department was formed. GFD has its own fire, EMS, and rescue services.

Share Your Story

I began my fire service career June 2nd of 2003. I hadn’t even considered being a fireman until a friend of mine suggested I ride out with him at the Plano Fire Department, in Plano, Texas. At the time, I lived in Garland, Texas and decided to test with its fire department. I was lucky enough to be hired with six of the greatest guys with whom I could ever work.

I retired with 7 lifesaving awards, paramedic of the year award, 2-unit citations, and was a member of the Honor Guard.

19/05/2026

We had a great time celebrating Book Trust's Bookbug Week 2026: Bookbug’s Big Quest. We shared a new rhyme at our session in the museum gallery, then we took a special adventure to the Fire Station.

Join us at home and have a go at the Rhyme:

Red fire engine, shiny and bright
Rushing through the day and night
Nee naw, nee naw, hear it say
Helping folks along the way

15/05/2026

04/05/2026

James Braidwood was giving off serious Jedi energy long before Lucas discovered The Force. Intelligent and calm under pressure, he devoted his life to training, service, and protecting his community.

May the 4th (and the fire service legacy) be with you.

04/05/2026

International Firefighters’ Memorial Day is a time to remember those who have lost their lives in the course of their duty. It acknowledges the long history of organised firefighting, from early communal fire watches to the professional services of today. At the Museum, we reflect on centuries of Scottish firefighting history and honour the work that continues.

28/04/2026

Last week a group of sketchers stopped by the gallery to draw inspiration from our collection. Thanks so much for sharing this image with us! It is of the Duns Appliance, the oldest one we have on display.

16/04/2026

We had a great time today at our Crack the Case: Junior Fire Investigator workshop. Led by Scottish Fire and Rescue Service - Fire investigators, children had the opportunity to learn about fire prevention and detection in an engaging, hands-on way.

Thank you to all the families who came along, and a special thanks to the Red Watch firefighters who gave their time and opened up their fire station bunk room to make the session possible.

As we wrap up our school holiday programme this weekend, this activity has certainly been one of the highlights.

14/04/2026

Glowing Egg-venture has been so popular that we're running it this Wednesday and Thursday as well as the weekend. Drop-in during our opening hours.

09/04/2026

Join the Museum of Scottish Fire Heritage as a Volunteer and help create engaging experiences for visitors.

The role involves supporting the delivery of family-focused museum events and activities, helping visitors, especially children and families, take part in creative, hands-on experiences throughout the year.

We are looking for friendly, reliable, and enthusiastic individuals who enjoy working with people, are comfortable engaging with families and community groups, and can contribute positively to a welcoming visitor experience.

Volunteers are typically asked to support during busy periods such as school holidays, weekends, and seasonal events, with training and guidance provided to ensure confidence in the role.

Apply by 21 April online at https://myjobscotland.gov.uk/emergency-services/scottish-fire-and-rescue-service/jobs/heritage-ambassador-museum-volunteer-466425