Manchester Wildfire Response Lauded At Council Meeting

MANCHESTER, NJ — The Manchester Township Council and Mayor Robert Arace honored the first responders from across Manchester who joined in efforts to protect residents and fight the wildfire in April that threatened homes in the township.

The wildfire that burned 3,859 acres over more than 48 hours from April 11-13 required a response from every aspect of the township's emergency services, along with assistance from a number of outside agencies.

Arace read the proclamation that thanked Manchester's emergency responders, but also noted that the gratitude extended well beyond just those at the front of the council chamber, to "our volunteer firefighters and the New Jersey Forest Fire Service."

"Their uniforms may not be represented here but we are grateful for their service," he said.

Manchester Councilman Joseph Hankins noted the Whiting Volunteer Fire Company's Ladies Auxiliary played a critical role, serving food and drinks to firefighters through the night while firefighters fought to contain the blaze.