Your bike in front of the Emergency Services

[Andy in Germany]

Shame we don't see such civic pride over here. As a moderately decent German speaker I find a lot to admire.

It can be a bit tribal, but it does have a positive effect.

It also means there's a pool of skilled men in the village who are respected and motivated, so when things are needed like the Maypole or the Christmas tree being put up or preparation for some village event, the fire department is often helping.