Volunteer Spirit Keeps Horse Cave's Firehouse Flame Alive

HORSE CAVE, Ky. (WBKO) — Looking for an exceptionally clean fire station? The Horse Cave Volunteer Fire Department raises the standards high when it comes to cleanliness.

The fire trucks are neatly parked in formation, bumper to bumper as if they were disciplined troops. The hoses are coiled up snugly, equipment is stowed away meticulously, and everything—from immaculate workstations to polished flooring—reflects the meticulous attention to cleanliness and order.

Pride runs deep, not only within the station itself but also among the individuals who have sustained it for almost 100 years. Among these, Captain Tony Robertson has made an indelible impression across virtually every part of it.

“Without a doubt, Tony’s been a blessing to Horse Cave, to our community and our fire district,” said Randall Curry, Horse Cave mayor. “About everything you see around here at this firehouse has Tony’s fingerprints and footprints on it.”

Robertson was born in Green County and later moved to Hart County, where his fascination with fire trucks began as a kid at LeGrande School. Seeing the firefighters up close lit a spark in him.

“I always thought it was neat,” he said. “I always figured that would be something I’d like to do.”

This isn't easy work—particularly when you're doing it without pay.

Over the years, Robertson has stood at the edge of some of the region’s darkest days—from the 2010 crash along I-65 that killed 11 people, including members of a Mennonite family, to the heart-wrenching search for one of their own, Arlene Grubbs.

Still, those who serve alongside him say his dedication never wavers.

Byron Logsdon, a team member from the department, mentioned, "Whenever you call out to him, he’s always ready with an assisting hand." He added, "No matter where our mission takes us, Tony consistently gives it his all."

Thanks to the proximity of I-65, Horse Cave’s volunteer team frequently arrives first at major accidents and emergency medical situations. These dedicated individuals collaborate extensively with various departments throughout Hart County, including those based in Bonnieville, Priceville, Cub Run, and Linwood.

In 1989, Robertson became part of the team. Having advanced to the rank of captain, he acknowledges the dedication exemplified by those volunteers who preceded him.

When issues arise, he is typically among the earliest to show up—remaining until long after most others have departed. Once the turmoil subsides, he remains attentive, composed, and dedicated to those still affected.

“I try to talk to them, calm them down, give them support,” Robertson said. “You know, try to take what’s there off their minds until we can get everything organized.”

Such backing isn't free from sacrifices. He mentioned his family has forfeited numerous hours through the years to allow him to dedicate himself to service.

“He would always know that once the alarm sounded, I’d leave,” he stated.

Fewer people are answering those tones these days. Every department in Hart County is staffed entirely by volunteers—there are no paid firefighters.

Without people like Robertson, some of those calls might not just be delayed—they might never be answered at all.

Still, when that tone goes off, he doesn’t hesitate. Even now, after decades of service, Robertson reaches for his gear—ready to roll, ready to help, same as always.