SMYRNA – On Sunday October 20, a major fire destroyed a family farm with a number of horses and colts lost in the blaze.

Dispatched crews found a fully involved barn fire. Several animals were spared or saved from the fire, including a dozen other horses. Intense heat made getting near the fire difficult. Three horses and at least three colts perished in the fire, others were injured.

The family has already begun significant work to restore the barn and has had a great amount of community support.

Alvin Troyer, the owner of the farm, thanked the community for their support.

Many have offered help. If anyone would like to contribute and help them restore the barn, they should mail donations to Joe. D. Byler, 475 County Road 22, Earlville New York, 13332. Donations should be written out to the victims of the fire: Alvin Troyer, 334 County Road 22, Earlville New York, 13332.

At about 11 a.m. on October 20, volunteer fire crews and EMTs from Smyrna, Sherburne, Earlville, Plymouth, North Norwich, Hamilton, Georgetown, Chenango County and Hubbardsville responded to the Troyer farm.

Fire crews kept the flames from the home, and silos and garage were saved. The barn and a machine shed were destroyed.

By about 3 p.m. most of the fire was over and many departments began to depart.

Crews respond to about 10 to 30 calls a month, one volunteer for Smyrna estimated. Most fire departments are desperately seeking volunteers. Time is required for training, but many personal benefits for growth, independence and leadership are offered, along with tangible benefits by local departments. Call or look up your local fire department online and make a difference today. Someday you might be the one dialing 911 and waiting for them to save you, your loved ones or your home.