For the past 48 years, members of the Tamaqua Rescue Squad have been volunteering their time to aid the community and they are now looking for the public's help.

The only totally independent volunteer service in the state of Pennsylvania is in the midst of its annual membership drive with fund drive brochures recently mailed to local residents. The squad is not part of the Tamaqua Fire Department or Tamaqua Community Ambulance Association and does not receive any funds designated for those organizations by Tamaqua Borough Council.Originally chartered in 1969 with 15 members, the squad has gone through several reorganizations and recently accepted delivery of a 2015 Ford F-550 Heavy Duty Rescue Vehicle, purchased to replace a 2003 light duty rescue truck. The new vehicle was built by Spartan ERV and purchased through Campbell Supply Company.Squad secretary and director Robert J. "Bucky" Derr explains the drive is needed as "rising operational costs are making it more difficult to meet our needs. Therefore, we are reaching out to our community for assistance."New volunteers are always welcome. Interested parties may stop by the station any Thursday evening to discover the capabilities of the squad and its members.Donations, made out to Tamaqua Rescue Squad, may be mailed to 19 Pine St., Tamaqua, PA 18252.