Hometown Hero: Dave Mann

Mann considered becoming a firefighter off and on since his teenage years, but in his words, “the opportunity never really presented itself.”  Between college, and living in Philadelphia for a time, he never felt a sense of permanency like he does in Moorestown.  Mann met a neighbor who was a volunteer firefighter, and as they discussed volunteering.

 He decided the time was right. The next thing he knew Dave was training with the Moorestown Fire Department and learning a lot.

 When asked about his experience as a firefighter, Mann says, “my experience as a firefighter has been nothing but positive.  Certainly at some incidents there are things that are less than happy going on, but the feeling of being a good neighbor/citizen that you get from helping those who need it, is very satisfying.  On many calls, we find the residents involved experiencing their worst day, and our ability to help them on their road to recovery is why I do it.”

 The firefighter acknowledged that it can be difficult to balance work, family, and volunteering for the Moorestown Fire Department.

 “There have been countless times when I have missed dinner, not been able to read books to my three kids before bed, or have been awoken at all hours of the night to respond to an emergency,” he said. “I wouldn’t change a thing, although my wife might disagree.”

 Mann feels that the most rewarding thing that he has gained from being a volunteer firefighter in Moorestown is the camaraderie among the group. He goes on to say, “It’s called the brotherhood (sisters included) for a reason.  While we have different personalities with different lives, families, and occupations I can guarantee that there is not a finer group of people than our volunteers.  As an example of this is our willingness to help each other whenever there is a need.”

 When asked what piece of advice he would give to a person who is or has considered volunteering with the Moorestown Fire Department, Mann says, “I would simply tell them that the time is now.  In my life I have found that the best way to get into a pool is to jump in with both feet. Slowly wading makes it harder to get in.  We need you, and we need you NOW.   When I speak to people about it, there is definitely interest, and even a certain measure of excitement.  The key is to get people who are both selfless and willing to actually step up.   Sometimes this is hard, but nothing really worth doing comes easily.”

 If you or someone you know is interested in joining the Moorestown Fire Department, please contact administrator Chris Chesner at (856) 234-5192 or visit www.moorestownfire.org.