Mission of United Hook & Ladder Company #33 The mission of United Hook & Ladder Company #33 shall be the preservation of life ... , protection of property and the prevention of additional harm to the environment to benefit our residents, businesses, and guests with compassion, integrity and respect. This mission also includes the performance of other charitable acts and public service that may aid in the health and welfare of the people within our service area and the surrounding vicinity. About United Hook & Ladder Co #33 The New Oxford and Abbottstown Fire Companies are proud to announce the formation of United Hook & Ladder Company #33. Over the past 85 years the members of New Oxford and Abbottstown have been working together at emergency incidents, public appearances, and training. The merging of the two departments was proposed and approved by the members of both departments as the best logic step in the evolution of the two departments. Many of our members' families have deep roots within these two fire departments, spanning back 100 years or more. We know that those before us would be proud of what we have accomplished for the safety and protection of the communities they started. The merging of the two departments is truly about efficiency. The combined department allows a larger number of human resources to be available to the department and the purchasing of all items as one entity saves a considerable amount of money for the taxpayers. Over the next few years you may see changes in the names and colors of the fire trucks, but rest assured that we are still the men and women that have been there for the community before. We are your neighbors and your friends. read more