The Hills and Hollows Half Marathon and 5K Run, Is dedicated to the memory of Melvin J. Fisher, a volunteer fireman and member of the Valmeyer community who lost his battle with cancer on September 1, 2004.

 For 30 years Melvin volunteered his time to make the Valmeyer Volunteer Fire Department a safer, highly trained more efficient response unit in the community. Through his efforts and encouragement more firemen on the department have completed or are enrolled in more advanced fire-fighting training than ever in the past. He was in the original class of EMT's when Valmeyer had an ambulance located in town. Now the fire department members are the First Responders until an ambulance arrives on the scene of an emergency.

  With his knowledge of the many commodities that were shipped by rail through the village he sought out training from the Union Pacific Railroad. The training wasn't limited to just the Valmeyer Fire Department. An invitation and encouragement to receive Haz-Mat training was extended to many of the fire departments in the surrounding region.
  Radio equipment, a lap top computer, rope rescue equipment and a system to charge the self contained breathing equipment were a few of the items the department acquired through his efforts.

  Melvin worked for a short time with a fire truck manufacturer learning the advantages of many different types of fire-fighting equipment and fire trucks. He passed his knowledge onto the department.
  Training is hard to apply without an emergency. A department must become creative. Being creative includes finding buildings, vehicles, and home furnishings along with permits to set these items on fire in a controlled environment. Departments attending and participating in Firemen's Musters are another way to practice fire-fighting skills. Fire department members become like family, knowing one day they will have to rely on one another when an emergency happens. The Half Marathon and 5K Run are a creative way to support the Valmeyer Active Firemen's Association.

The Race Director and Creator of this event is Marvin Fisher, twin brother of Melvin Fisher

Thank you for your support!