Stone Harbor Honors Longtime Firefighter

STONE HARBOR — Stone Harbor Volunteer Fire Company No. 1 honored long time firefighter Theron “Peanut” Wetzler at their annual fire company banquet Feb. 28.
Chief Roger Stanford lauded Wetzler for his long service to the fire company, which began in 1937. During his 72-year tenure, Wetzler served over 30 years as Deputy Chief and he currently holds Deputy Chief Emeritus rank.
Chief Roger Stanford, chief for 19 of his 28 years of service, told the Herald that Wetzler is a “true-blue firefighter to the core” who continues to be a presence at the firehouse often seen telling stories of his experiences to novice members.
Wetzler is still active in the fire company; he regularly attends meetings, drills and has never missed the annual fireman’s convention, which is now held in Wildwood.
Sen. Jeff Van Drew and Assemblymen Nelson Albano and Matthew Milam (all D-1st) also presented Wetzler with a state proclamation for his service.
Wetzler was also honored by Mayor Suzanne Walters who presented him with a resolution giving him the highest commendation of the people of Stone Harbor for his devoted service.
“Peanut’s love of Stone Harbor and his commitment to the Fire Company is an inspiration to all of us. I am thrilled that we were able to honor him at the banquet. He definitely deserves the recognition for all of his service to the community,” Walters said.
He was also recognized for his service during World War II, during which he served in the U.S Army’s 77th Infantry in Guam and South Pacific from April 1942 until January 1946.
Wetzler, a man of few words, simply said “Thank you” to all who attended.
Solicitor Michael Donohue read the resolution honoring Wetzler’s 50 years of service at Borough Council’s meeting March 3. The resolution states that Wetzler first came with his family to the borough via train in 1926, joined the fire company as a junior member and was initiated as a full time member when he turned 21-years-old.
“Peanut has been a mentor for four generations of Stone Harbor firefighters, including his service as Assistant Chief under Chief Harry-Martin and Deputy Chief under Chiefs Herschel ‘Pidge’ McClure, Doug Stanford; Dave Priggemeier and Thomas Rossman,” Donohue read.
The resolution recognizes Wetzler as a vital community leader and will be on display at Borough Hall throughout March so that “all persons shall know of the lasting example of dedication to duty, country and the fire service Theron ‘Peanut’ Wetzler has been throughout his life.”
Contact Truluck at (609) 886-8600 ext. 24 or at: ltruluck@cmcherald.com