New Member Sworn Into Chatham Township Fire Department

CHATHAM, NJ — The Chatham Township Volunteer Fire Department (CTVFD) welcomed its newest full-time member on Monday, Aug. 8.

Olivia Bary, the department's newest member, joined as a junior firefighter in January 2021 and then went on to earn her Firefighter 1 certification from the Morris County Fire Academy, according to CTVFD President Richard Gentles.

"The fire service is like a family, and the longer I'm around the firehouse, the more that idea is solidified," Bary said.

Bary graduated from Chatham High School and will begin her studies at Boston University this fall.

"The CTVFD is very proud of Olivia," James Soccodato, Deputy Chief, said. "Not only is she a great addition to our team, but hopefully she will inspire more women and high school students to join us."

The CTVFD was established in 1925 and is entirely made up of volunteer members, including 25 active firefighters, junior firefighters, and associate members.

The department, which has its headquarters on River Road and a second station on Southern Boulevard, responds to about 300 calls per year, both within Chatham Township and as mutual aid to departments in neighboring communities.

Any high school junior or senior who wishes to join the department is encouraged to send an email to membership@ctfd.org.