04/07/2026
Ozaukee Freemasons Support Local Law Enforcement with Life-Saving Equipment Donation
In a powerful display of community partnership and commitment to public safety, the Ozaukee Freemasons Lodge #17, located in Port Washington, Wisconsin, recently made a meaningful contribution to local law enforcement agencies. The Lodge donated fire suppression tools to the Ozaukee County Sheriff's Office and speed detection equipment to the Port Washington Police Department.
What makes this donation especially meaningful is how it came to life. The funds used to purchase the equipment were raised through a community-driven initiative—a golf outing organized by the Lodge that was conducted at The Bog in Saukville, Wisconsin. What began as a simple idea quickly grew into a successful event, bringing together members, local supporters, and businesses for a day of fellowship, friendly competition, and charitable purpose. The outing not only strengthened community ties but also directly contributed to enhancing public safety across Ozaukee County.
The donation reflects the longstanding mission of Freemasonry: to support and strengthen the communities they serve. By equipping deputies with fire suppression tools (FSTs), the Lodge is helping ensure that first responders have the resources necessary to act quickly in emergency situations—particularly in the critical moments before fire departments arrive on scene. In talking with the Undersheriff Marshall Hermann, he informed us that with this donation, all of their patrol cars as well as their tactical vehicle will now be equipped with an FST.
Fire suppression tools are compact, highly effective devices designed to quickly extinguish small fires. These tools can be deployed within seconds, making them invaluable for law enforcement officers who are often the first to arrive at incidents involving vehicle fires, small structure fires, or other hazardous situations. Early intervention with these tools can help save lives, reduce property damage, and prevent fires from escalating.
In addition, the donation of speed detection equipment to the Port Washington Police Department enhances officers’ ability to enforce traffic laws and promote safer roadways. Speeding remains one of the leading contributors to traffic accidents, and having reliable, modern detection tools allows officers to better monitor and address dangerous driving behaviors—ultimately helping to protect motorists, pedestrians, and families throughout the community.
Representatives of the Ozaukee Freemasons emphasized that this effort is about more than equipment—it’s about supporting the men and women who dedicate their lives to protecting others. “This is what we do as Masons,” WM Brian Hollenbeck shared. “We believe in giving back, in standing beside those who serve, and in helping make our communities safer for everyone.”
The Ozaukee County Sheriff's Office welcomed the donation as a valuable addition to their capabilities, noting that having fire suppression tools readily available allows deputies to respond more effectively to emergencies throughout the county.
Likewise, the Port Washington Police Department expressed appreciation for the Lodge’s generosity. The newly donated speed detection equipment will play an important role in traffic enforcement efforts, helping officers reduce speeding and improve overall road safety within the city.
The Ozaukee Masonic Lodge continues to demonstrate that strong communities are built through service, cooperation, and a shared commitment to the greater good. Through this donation—made possible by the success of their golf outing—they have not only provided essential tools, but also reinforced the bond between civic organizations and local law enforcement.
As Freemasonry teaches, it is through acts of charity and brotherhood that lasting impact is made—and this initiative stands as a shining example of those principles in action.
