(above) Stirling Fire Chief Al Gallo and Brian DiDonna
Long Hill Township’s Newest Firefighter
Submitted by Frank Reilly
The Stirling Volunteer Fire Co. has a new fully accredited firefighter, Brian DiDonna of Millington, who graduated from the County Fire Academy in early October. At the fire company’s monthly meeting he was congratulated by his fellow firefighters for his achievement and Fire Chief Al Gallo presented him with his new personal helmet shield that displays his official firefighter number, #138. His parents were there to witness the shield presentation ceremony and share in coffee and cake along with the taking of numerous photos. They are very proud of their son.
The Firefighter I course is almost 200 hours and provides certified and extensive training to volunteer and paid firefighters together. The training helps participants become experts on firefighting equipment and techniques, handling hazardous materials situations, effective firefighting teamwork, firefighter and civilian safety, and communications.
A strict dress code was maintained for Firefighter I training, additionally if the student missed just one class, he would fail the course automatically. He also had to pass grueling physical and written tests.
The Stirling Volunteer Fire Co. is 100% comprised of Long Hill Township residents who have given freely of their time 24/7 every day of the year since 1913.
