Crime & Safety

West Caldwell Fireman Honored for 50 Years of Service

Sixteen members of WCFD recognized for a combined more than 300 years of service at annual awards dinner.

West Caldwell Fire Department members past and present were joined by township officials and mutual aid representatives, as well as family, friends and supporters at the annual awards dinner held at Mountain Ridge Country Club in West Caldwell in November.

Sixteen members were recognized for a combined more than 300 years of service.

Jeff Mostwill was honored for 50 years of service with the West Caldwell Volunteer Fire Department, the longest tenure of any living member, along with Charles Krueser (40 years), Ben Hershkowitz (35 years), Rich Douglas (25 years), Chris Flint (25 years), Tom O’Hern (20 years), Karl Otterbein (15 years), Hugh Albanesius (15 years), Jared Fout (10 years), Megan Stout (10 years), Erik Otterbein (10 years), Tom King (5 years), Greg Table (5 years) and Bill Stickles (5 years).

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Former fire chief Charles Holden (2006-2011) was also recognized, along with recently retired members, Vincent Graziosa and Jock Watkins Jr.

A bagpiper played “Amazing Grace” to honor three members of the department who passed away in 2012, Herbert Peppel, Anthony Torchia and Tony Calamito.

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The evening included the screening of a 100th anniversary tribute video for the department, which was founded in 1912. 


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