Chief at Pennsburg Fire Company No. 1, Cody Belmont, has been a volunteer firefighter in Montgomery County for 21 years. His son Austin started volunteering two years ago as a junior firefighter.
“Seeing Austin start where I started brings back so many memories,” said Cody. “I love being able to teach him everything I’ve learned and watch him grow.”
Volunteering at the fire house together is a way for them to bond.
“I love spending my Sunday mornings at the station with my dad,” said Austin. “I admire his serious approach to the job, whether on a call or training.”
Cody shares the same sentiment about his son.
“Austin is willing to do whatever needs to get done,” said Cody. “And he’s eager to learn.”
Both father and son highlight the critical need for more volunteers in Montgomery County and why it’s important to volunteer.
“It’s a great way to give back to your community. You learn so many awesome skills and get to spend time with a lot of great people,” said Austin.
Austin and Cody consider the members of their fire company to be an extended family.
“There’s no greater feeling than being the ones that your neighbors and even complete strangers call on in their times of need,” said Cody. “You are part of something much bigger than yourself. You’re part of a family.”
