East Petersburg borough Mayor James Malone honored James "Jamie" Rohrer Jr. for 21 years of service as the East Petersburg Fire Company (EPFC) chief at the Feb. 4 borough council meeting. Malone presented Rohrer with the Excellent Service Award after reading a proclamation highlighting Rohrer's "longstanding and strong service" to the community.
"(Rohrer) has turned (station) 23 into an excellent fire company," council president Kathleen Panus commented. "We certainly appreciate that." To Rohrer, she added, "Thank you for your skills and making this one of the best fire companies in the county, if not the state."
Rohrer was following his firefighter father's example when he joined the EPFC as a junior firefighter in 1982. He worked his way through the different ranks, ultimately accepting the position of chief in 1998.
"It was a way to serve my community," Rohrer remarked. "I love the fire service."
In addition to directing the operations of the fire company, Rohrer became a state fire instructor with an emphasis on rescues. He frequently teaches at Bucks Community College, but he also travels to other counties to teach classes.
"It's not really work; it's fun. I tear up about 100 cars and buses a year," Rohrer said. "I pass on techniques to people joining the fire service so they can make their communities safer."
While Rohrer has stepped back from the top role at EPFC, he has not retired from the organization. Instead, he will serve as captain, with the primary responsibility of ensuring all fire company members receive the training they need to be effective first responders.
"I needed to focus on my business; it's picking up," Rohrer added.
Don Schoenberger has replaced Rohrer as EPFC chief. Schoenberger had served in that position prior to Rohrer's first term. At 21 years in office, Rohrer is the longest-serving chief in EPFC's 110-year history. The fire company's anniversary was on Jan. 22, and a celebration is being considered, Rohrer said.
EPFC leaders are working on planning events for the year, including the fire company's popular potpie takeout fundraisers. Additionally, trainings are held on the first Monday of every month at 7 p.m., and business meetings take place on the first Wednesday of the month at 7 p.m. All activities are held at the fire station, 6076 Pine St., East Petersburg.
Being recognized by the council felt good, Rohrer said. "(I've invested) a lot of time and commitment to serve the community. Dad would be proud," he added.
The EPFC welcomes new members to serve in any capacity. To learn more or to apply, readers may visit http://www.jointhefd.com.
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