Middletown Firefighter George McGowan Receives Key To Township

MIDDLETOWN, NJ — At the most recent Middletown Township Committee meeting, held last Tuesday, Feb. 20, resident George McGowan received a Key to the Township for his 50 years of volunteer service to the Middletown Fire Department.

McGowan began his service as a Middletown volunteer firefighter in October 1973, after he attended a firefighter fair. He joined Belford Engine Fire Company. In the years that followed, he climbed the officer ladder, being the first captain to serve Belford Engine for two years in a row in 1984 and 1985, and holding the position of 1st assistant and 2nd assistant engineer.

Since, 1973 he has responded to more than 1,500 911 fire calls.

"To be standing next to giants like George, to know that at a moment's notice you are leaving your kitchen table, leaving your family behind, oftentimes putting yourself in danger. But knowing you are doing it for the benefit of your community — deserves not only our deep gratitude but a massive round of applause," said Mayor Tony Perry at the meeting last Tuesday. "You have given your life in service to people you may never meet. It will never be forgotten and can only be applauded."

Even though it was not required back then, McGowan took it upon himself to attend and graduate from Middletown Township’s first fire academy class. The fire academy is now mandatory for all volunteers.

"I'm not good at making speeches, but thank you everybody. I appreciate it," said McGowan.

McGowan has also completed numerous other trainings, such as shipboard firefighting and a state-offered defensive driving course.

He has been part of multiple committees such as Engine, Casino Night and Valentine’s Day dance, and started the Santa Claus Committee.