Gottheimer Names Ridgewood Firefighter 'Hometown Hero'

RIDGEWOOD, NJ — There have been plenty of New Jersey residents who deserve credit for their community efforts throughout the duration of the coronavirus pandemic.

During a recent Facebook event, Congressman Josh Gottheimer honored a number of residents across New Jersey's 5th District, including one Ridgewood firefighter.

"We are lucky to have so many unsung heroes in our communities, whose quiet power of service goes on every day without the recognition they truly deserve. They just do it because they care. Today is their day," said Gottheimer.

"These individuals come from all walks of life, but they all share an idea that is particularly special — they embody our Jersey Values and make our community such a special place to live, work, and raise a family. They are actively helping us build a more perfect union. We all should work to live up to their example," the congressman added.

Jason Jacoby, a Midland Park resident and Ridgewood firefighter, was named a "Hometown Hero."

Jacoby, who is also the President of FMBA Local 47, has "has received two unit citations for lifesaving actions: for saving two individuals trapped in a flooded car during a hurricane and for saving a Ridgewood resident trapped underneath the tire of a bus," according to Gottheimer's office.

He began at the department as a volunteer in 2005, but was appointed to the career side in 2008 as a firefighter and EMT.

Each honoree "was selected and nominated by faith, civic, and community leaders, and elected officials across New Jersey's Fifth District for their commitment to service," Gottheimer's office said.

WATCH THE FULL EVENT HERE:

CORRECTION: This article originally identified Jason Jacoby as a volunteer firefighter. Though he began his career that way, Jacoby was appointed to the career side in 2008 as a firefighter and EMT.