Appleton Fire Department

🚨 BREAKING NEWS 🚨

The Appleton Fire Department has officially confirmed the rumor:
Yes, firefighters really do rescue cats from trees. 🐈🌳🚒

Yesterday, one of our officers called for AFD’s assistance after a cat climbed a tree while trying to escape a dog that was nearby. AFD responded and safely brought the cat back down to earth, preserving a tradition as old as the fire service itself.

Jokes aside, moments like this are a great reminder of how fortunate we are to work alongside such dedicated partners at the Appleton Fire Department. Whether it’s a major emergency or helping a frightened pet, our departments are always ready to work together to serve the community. We know pets are family, and when they’re in danger, it can be a scary situation for the people who love them, which makes safe outcomes like this especially important.

Thankfully, this story had a happy ending for everyone involved, especially our new furry friend.

Today is the day we pay homage to all those who didn’t come home; it is a day of solemn contemplation over the cost of freedom.

Last week, the Appleton Fire Department gathered with community members, city staff, and families to dedicate the new Lundgaard Park Pavilion and unveil memorial plaques honoring four Appleton firefighters who died in the line of duty:

• Chief Elmer L. Anderson (February 13, 1901)
• Assistant Chief Michael Calnin (August 7, 1929)
• Firefighter Louis P. McGillan (March 28, 1933)
• Driver/Engineer Mitchell F. Lundgaard (May 15, 2019)

The ceremony included a fire hose uncoupling and served as a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the service and sacrifice of those who helped shape our department’s history.

We also want to extend a sincere thank you to the Appleton Parks and Recreation Department for their partnership and support. A pavilion of this size and quality in a neighborhood park is truly special, and we are grateful for the investment in both this area and the community members who will gather here for years to come.

May 15, 2019

The crew of 9321 responded to the report of an unconscious male on a bus at the Valley Transit Center. The patient was quickly revived from a drug overdose, regained consciousness, and walked off the bus. The situation soon escalated after the patient refused transport to the hospital. He pulled a handgun from his pocket and began shooting. Driver Engineer Mitch Lundgaard was struck in the chest. Police officers on scene exchanged gunfire with the suspect, killing him. Despite the heroic best efforts of his crew, Gold Cross paramedics, and the emergency room staff at ThedaCare Hospital to save Driver Engineer Lundgaard, he passed away. Mitch is survived by his wife and their three young sons. He was 36 years old.