Willard Fire Protection District started out in 1954 as the Willard Community Fire Department. They purchased a new 1954 Chevy 6400 Truck with fire body and mid-ship pump. With time the department had a small 1000 gallon tanker. Other truck and equipment were added later. 1988 after the voters of the area approved a 30 cent per $100 evaluation tax to support fire service, the Willard Fire Protection District was started. By then a second station had been added in the Schuyler area of the fire district just north of Springfield Missouri. The district had three engines (including the 54 Chevy), 2 tankers, and a utility pickup for rescue calls. The 54 Chevy was updated with a new front mount Barton-American 500 GPM and new fire compartment body with 500 gallon tank. This truck today is used for parades.

Today the District responds from three station with 3 engines, 3 tankers, 3 brush trucks, 2 medical rescues, 1 Ladder, 1 Heavy Service Rescue, and 1 off road 4 x 4. The District has about 50 fire and EMS personnel. A Junior Fire Program and 5 Board Members. Of the personnel we have 31 FF I & II, 20 EMT-Bs, and 5 ALS responders (Paramedic or RN). We responded to over 900 calls for service in 2010. We are currently volunteer paid by the point system.