Five decades is a milestone worth celebrating for any group organization, and when you think about 50 years of protecting citizens it becomes even more impressive.

That was exactly the case last weekend for the Elizabeth Township Volunteer Fire Department as firefighters past and present came together to celebrate this achievement.

With shrinking government budgets and difficult financial times for many citizens, volunteer organizations are more important than ever — yet finding individuals to drive these organizations has gotten much more difficult.

This is certainly a testament to all the firefighters who have served the Elizabeth department over the years who have made personal sacrifices to keep the community safe.

All Lawrence County’s volunteer fire departments — and its paid ones for that matter — should be commended for their commitment and dedication, often being asked to do a lot with a little.

Hopefully, in another five decades, the community will be talking about all the great accomplishment of the second 50 years.