Joe Stockert has been a volunteer firefighter at the Fairmount Fire Company for 43 years, serving 11 years as Chief and eight as Assistant Chief. Joe brought his son, Dillon, with him to the fire company ever since Dillon was a baby.
“My dad is my hero,” said Dillon. “Even at Disney World, I’d proudly tell everyone he was the fire chief.”
When Dillon turned 16 years old, he officially joined as a junior firefighter.
“Fighting fires and serving the community is something we can bond over,” said Joe.
Becoming a volunteer firefighter pushed Dillon to conquer his fear of heights. The stick ladder trucks are 107 feet tall.
“He worked his way up,” said Joe. “We watched him reach a quarter way up, then a half and then one day he zipped all the way up.”
Dillon felt confident knowing his dad always has his back. He admits that watching his father’s commitment put pressure on him to do better and he feels safer knowing his dad is looking out for him and everyone on emergency calls.
“I’m proud to volunteer with my son,” said Joe. “It’s important to help people in need.”
Joe and Dillon encourage residents to join and help protect the community.
“You never know if you’re going to like it until you try it,” said Joe.
To get connected with your local fire company, visit the “Contact Us” section on our website and fill out an inquiry form.
