March 22, 2022 – Today, the Salvation Army of Decatur presented the Decatur Police Department the Traveling Trophy for winning the Annual Gurneys, Guns, & Hoses First Responders Bell Ringing for 2021. The event was held in front of both Walmart Stores and Sam’s Club, as well as online in Virtual Kettles as the First Responders this year collectively rang for 73 one-hour shifts and raised $13,028.50 which was then matched dollar for dollar, for a total of over $26,000.
“I remember the first discussions about this event even coming together,” said Kyle Karsten, Development Director of the Salvation Army Decatur. “So I think the camaraderie and the competition was created from day one. You start seeing a traveling trophy and you want to see your name on that. After the City Fire’s five-year run, I imagine next year they will come out of the gate hard next year. It’s a very friendly competition because they know the grand total and the support of the city are what it’s all about.”
2021 Final Results:
Police – $4,654.03
City Fire – $4,337.56
Sheriff – $2,218.85
County Fire – $1,281.85
Ambulance – $537.00
TOTAL $13,028.50
