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Longport honors longest serving firefighters

  • Downbeach

From left, Mayor Nicholas Russo, Levon Clayton, Commissioners Jim Leeds Sr. and Dan Lawler.

LONGPORT - Mayor Nicholas Russo and the Board of Commissioners Wednesday, June 1 honored several of its longest serving volunteer firefighters, including current Longport Volunteer Fire Department Chief Levon "Lefty" Clayton.

Russo said they honor the borough with their "tremendous committment" to the safety of the residents of Longport.

"I can't even conceive it - 50 years of service," said Russo, who is also a volunteer firefighter.

In addition to devoting time to their families, the volunteers attend drills and training, raise money for the department and fight fires, Russo said.

Capt. Richard B. Hirsch Jr. with members of the Longport Board of Commissioners.

Clayton has served for 51 years, and Capt. Richard B. Hirsch Jr. served for 50 years.

"How do you put 50 years of service into a short speech," Russo said.

They were each presented with plaques and proclamations.

Presentations for William A. Fiore, who has 62 years of service under his belt, and Anthony Viccharelli Jr. with 52 years, will be made at a later date, Russo said.