Everyday Heroes at Fire Station 27 and a Glimpse at LAFD History

Hollywood's Fire Station 27 opened its doors for a day of fun with the community on Saturday morning.

Trucks were parked on the street and firefighters were available to speak with residents as part of Los Angeles Fire Department annual open house — stations across the city were open to the public all day.

It's an ideal time for families to visit their neighborhood station. Firefighters are on hand to answer questions ande demonstrate their equipment as kids are allowed to explore the trucks.

Trevor Cooper, a firefighter with Station 27 put out his gear out for display and allowed people to try it on. The heavy jacket had pockets stuffed with tools and holes in the sleeves to accomodate his thumbs.

Next door, at the LAFD Museum, its held a pancake breakfast fundraiser.

It marked the 11th year the historical society has organized the breakfast.  Bob Lee, executive chef and a board director, knows what it takes to feed the group.

He orderd 70 pounds of sausage, 60 dozen eggs, 75 pounds of pancake mix, about 7 pounds of butter and 4 gallons of syrup.

Tickets sold for $5 per adult and $3 per child. Proceeds from the event benefit the historical society and helps to keep the museum running.

Organizers estimated more than 600 people came to the breakfast 2010 and expected a similar turnout on Saturday morning.

Lee, said though he realizes that pancake breakfasts at fire stations are common across the county, the food from his kitchen is the best.

"I can't tell you why otherwise everyone else will have the best," Lee said with a smile.

A volunteer from the kitchen quickly followed up by replying, "The secret is we make it from the heart."