| What year did you join NBFD?: "1967" ( 59 years of service to date )
What current or previous positions have you held?: Active firefighter, driver, member of the bingo team, and past vice president. He currently is the secretary and event treasurer ( Carnival, St Fair ) for the company.
What is the most memorable emergency that you responded to?: A fatal accident outside of New Bloomfield.
Why did you join the Fire Company?: I knew a longstanding member, Harold Spotts, who influenced my decision. I was on the scene of a
barn fire in town watching when I was 16. Harold came up to me after the call and said you're 16 now, why don't you join. So I did.
What is the biggest change you have seen?: "The equipment cost in today's fire service."
Gary is a life member with NBFD and was part of the team that restored New Bloomfield's 1932 Hahn in 1975.
New Year's eve the Huckleberry is dropped from the court house, and for many years, Gary sported a diaper to be Baby New Year.
He is also a charter member with the Pa. Pump Primers, as you will see Gary working the food tent at their musters in Harrisburg every year.
Anyone who knows Gary knows his knowledge for Perry County history and this is true with fire company history, too. And if he doesn't know the answer, at least you will get a good story out of him.
The fire company and Gary’s family are grateful for his presence. During an accident where Gary was assisting with traffic control, he experienced a medical emergency. Fortunately, the ambulance and medic were still on scene, allowing Gary to receive immediate medical attention and make a full recovery.
Gary is always willing to help wherever needed, and has dedicated countless hours to the company.
Thanks Gary, for everything you have done and continue to do. |
Nov 06, 2026
