Branch Fire and Rescue

06/02/2026

Dave Kluenker joined the fire department in June of 1996 and the First responders in January of 1997.

Dave took a short leave of absence returning in December of 2008 and has been very dedicated to since returning. Dave worked his way up through the officer ranks to current Assistant Chief. Dave is co-owner with D&D Dairy in Branch. Dave is an important asset to have available during daytime calls. As call volumes have increased his flexibility to respond and his dedication to supporting our operations has become even more valuable.

Dave's dedication to our community shows he recently took the Emergency Medical
Responder class this past winter, so he can help our community with medical calls.

In Dave's free time he enjoys spending time with his daughter Lexi (also in the fire
department), spending time with family and friends and making firewood.

Branch Fire and Rescue want to congratulate AC Kluenker on his dedication to the fire department on responding to his 500th call and countless hours of service to our community and neighboring communities.

Congratulations

Chief Josh Stradal

06/02/2026

Assistant Chief Jeremy Stradal joined the Branch Fire Department in June of 1995. He has worked his way up through the officer ranks and current Assistant Chief, also the
department's treasurer since 2005.

From working on the family farm to road construction to his current position of road
superintendent of the Town of Manitowoc Rapids Jeremy has always had dedication to the fire department knowing there were long nights on calls and getting up early for work.

Jeremy is a valuable asset to our daytime fire response operations. His flexibility and
willingness to respond when needed have been especially impactful as call volumes have increased, demonstrating an even greater level of dedication and commitment.

In Jeremy's free time he enjoys spending time with his wife Lana and 2 children, Makayla and Hudson camping and hunting.

Branch Fire and Rescue want to congratulate AC Stradal on his dedication to the fire department on responding to his 700th call and countless hours of service to our community and neighboring communities.

Congratulations

Chief Josh Stradal

05/22/2026

05/21/2026

During EMS Week, Branch Fire and Rescue would like to recognize and thank our department’s Emergency Medical Responders for their dedication and service to our community.

Our EMRs are often among the first to arrive on scene, providing critical care, compassion, and support during emergencies. Their commitment to training, teamwork, and helping others plays a vital role in the care we provide as a department.

Thank you to our EMRs for the time, sacrifices, and professionalism you bring to every call. Your dedication to serving our community does not go unnoticed.

Happy EMS Week! 🚑💙

05/20/2026

🚒 TRAINING NIGHT 🚒

Last evening, Branch Fire and Rescue trained on our “First 5 Minute Drill” — a scenario focused on the most critical moments of any fire response. The actions taken in the first five minutes often set the tone for the entire operation.

🔥 Training objectives included:
• Establishing Command
• Conducting Search Operations
• Fire Attack
• Establishing Water Supply

Crews operated inside a smoke-filled structure with zero visibility conditions, creating a realistic environment while still maintaining a safe training atmosphere.

This training also gave several of our newest members — who recently completed their initial firefighter certification course — an excellent opportunity to put their skills to work alongside experienced firefighters.

Continuous training helps keep our members prepared, confident, and ready to protect the community when the call comes in.

05/19/2026

🚨 PUBLIC ALERT 🚨

Tonight, Branch Fire & Rescue will be conducting training operations at an acquired structure located at 6924 Highway JJ. Residents in the area may see smoke and emergency vehicles present during the exercise.

This is only a training event, and there is no emergency or danger to the public.

Thank you for your understanding as our members continue to train and prepare to serve the community.

05/01/2026

Fish Boil Day!!! Final preparations are being done! We start serving at 3:30pm - 7pm. Any orders of 10+ - please call/text ahead 920-323-6673

04/27/2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Branch Fire & Rescue
Water Rescue Incident – Manitowoc River

On April 26, 2026, at 17:59 hours, Branch Fire & Rescue was dispatched to a reported water rescue on the Manitowoc River in the Whitewater Acres subdivision, Township of Manitowoc Rapids. Three individuals were reported stranded on an island after their kayaks capsized.

Due to elevated and fast-moving water conditions, a MABAS Box Alarm (1-1-5) was activated and upgraded to a working still to secure additional resources. Upon arrival, crews confirmed all three individuals were on the island and uninjured.

Given the hazardous river conditions, the rescue required a coordinated technical response. Fire personnel deployed rope systems and established anchor points to safely access the island and assist the individuals back to shore.

The first rescuer reached the island at approximately 18:36 hours. The first individual was brought safely to shore at 19:08 hours, with the remaining individuals following shortly after. All three were successfully returned to shore and evaluated by EMS personnel on scene.

Branch Fire & Rescue would like to extend its appreciation to the following agencies for their assistance:

Brillion Fire Department
City of Two Rivers Fire Department
Francis Creek First Responders
Manitowoc Fire Rescue Department
Manitowoc County Sheriff's Office
Manitowoc County Emergency Services Division
Newton Volunteer Fire Dept.
Valders Fire and Rescue
Whitelaw Volunteer Fire Department

Public Safety Reminder:
Spring river conditions can be unpredictable and dangerous, with strong currents, cold water temperatures, and rapidly changing water levels. Branch Fire & Rescue strongly encourages all individuals participating in water activities to wear properly fitted life jackets, check weather and river conditions in advance, and avoid areas with swift or rising water.

Media Contact:
Branch Fire & Rescue
Chief Josh Stradal