Celebrating 20 Years of Service with OWL VFD: Mark Bauer

Some journeys begin with dramatic backdrops—stormy skies, flashing lights, and a sense of destiny. But for OWL Life Member Mark Bauer, it all started under the bright sun at an elementary school carnival.

It was there that a simple silent auction item—a ride-along with the OWL Volunteer Fire Department—set everything into motion. His wife was eager to bid, determined to win the experience. If she did, she insisted he could take her place. After all, firefighting wasn’t new to him. Having trained in shipboard firefighting in the Navy, he thought he had put that chapter behind him. But his wife? She was ready to dive in.

Watching her embrace the fire service with such passion, Mark realized something familiar about it—the camaraderie, the teamwork, the shared mission. It was a reflection of what he had once known in the military, serving on a submarine where bonds were unbreakable.

After some hesitation, she agreed. And with that, Mark’s own journey at OWL began.

Starting out at his first station, Mark trained under experienced officers and drivers, quickly finding his footing. The fire service became an exciting and challenging new chapter, full of unforgettable calls and valuable lessons.

He became an ambulance driver, experiencing the fast-paced world of emergency medical services. One night, after running 21 calls and transporting 19 patients, Mark knew EMT life wasn’t his calling. But driving? That was another story.

Under the guidance of skilled mentors, he learned to navigate the fire engine with precision—eventually becoming more confident in reverse than forward. It was a moment he would never forget.

With each crew, the job became more rewarding. The excitement of responding to calls, the friendly rivalry of getting to a scene first, and the adrenaline of working side by side with skilled firefighters made every shift feel like an adventure.

Eventually, life took him in a different direction, pulling him away from operational duties. Work demands increased, and stepping back became necessary. But OWL VFD never left his heart.  The department and its people remained an important part of Mark’s life.

Though Mark stepped away from frontline operations, he and his wife found a new way to serve—returning as administrative members.

Holding various roles at the department, managing department property became his new mission, allowing Mark to continue making a difference behind the scenes.

Twenty years later, he is proud to have been wrong. Mark’s journey stands as a testament to the power of dedication, brotherhood, and the unbreakable spirit of volunteer firefighting.