The Mission

The Muddy River FOOLS is a brotherhood of firefighters from Illinois and Missouri founded in 2006 by a group of Alton firemen. We believe in Pride: In our departments, in our stations, in our apparatus, and pride in ourselves. We believe in Training: To make ourselves and our brothers better firefighters every day of our careers. It is us who will uphold the rich heritage and traditions that have been passed on, and see that they never fail.

WE FURTHER DEFINE OUR MISSION BY ADOPTING THE STATEMENT OF THE FOUNDING FOOLS:

The Fraternal Order of Leatherheads Society was founded in 1995 by a group of Central Florida Firemen. This group, known as the Founding FOOLS, had a passion for not only the camaraderie and brotherhood that is forged between firefighters, but the rich tradition and heritage of the Fire Service.

The Leatherhead is a term used for a firefighter who uses the leather helmet for protection from the hazards we face everyday on the streets. The Leather Helmet is an international sign of a Firefighter, a symbol that is significant in not only tradition from the early years of firefighting, but one of bravery, integrity, honor, and pride. This helmet is a sign of who we are, not what we are.

The FOOLS, like the traditional leather helmet, has always existed through the brotherhood and tradition of the Fire Service, and will continue to grow and flourish as long as there are fires to fight and emergencies to respond to. All firefighters are welcome to be a part of this great organization; one does not have to own a leather helmet to be considered a "Leatherhead". We advocate that you are true to your profession and true to your Brother and Sister firefighters.

We as FOOLS International ask of each and every one of you, let us never, ever forget those of us that have gone before us in the line of duty. Because those brave souls have given all, it is up to us to always keep them alive in our hearts and our memories. Long live the FOOLS.