Summit Firefighter Michael Cook Retires
City of Summit
The City of Summit Fire Department announced the retirement of Firefighter Michael E. Cook on January 17, 2022. Cook is one of the longest-serving firefighters in Summit history, after 42 years of service with the department.
Michael Cook was hired as a volunteer firefighter by the Summit Fire Department on November 8, 1978 and was later hired as a firefighter on December 1, 1980. He was the first African American firefighter to be hired by the department.
Cook has been recognized by the fire department for his outstanding performance at a variety of emergency calls throughout Summit and the surrounding communities. He participated in fire prevention open houses, firehouse tours, fire safety presentations at Summit public schools, and many other community events. Cook also served on the Firefighters Mutual Benevolent Association (FMBA) Bereavement Committee, and received a Medal of Valor Award from the Two Hundred Club of Union County in 1988.
“Michael Cook will continue to be part of the Summit Fire Department family,” says Summit Fire Chief Eric Evers. “We are thankful for his service to our community over his long tenure with the department, and will miss his presence among our team. We wish him the best in his retirement.”
Michael Cook lives in Summit with his wife and children.
Photo by City of Summit
