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HAMILTON: Firefighter retires after decades of service

By Amy Batista, Special Writer
   Firefighter Linwood “Woody” Emmons, 64, officially retired from his post on July 31 after 42 years of service.
   ”I will miss everything there is about fire fighting and most of all the firefighters, EMTs and police officers that I have worked side by side with all these years,” said Firefighter Emmons in an email on Aug. 2.
   The Hamilton resident officially started working as a full-time career firefighter with Hamilton Township Fire District No. 6 on July 8, 1991 and has worked over the years in the capacity as a driver, EMT and HAZMAT technician.
   He noted he began as volunteer firefighter in August 1972.
   ”I became a volunteer firefighter because my grandfather was a firefighter in Bound Brook and my dad was a firefighter with White Horse Volunteer Fire Company, and my uncle was a firefighter with Neptune,” he said. “My son Matthew is also a firefighter with White Horse Volunteer Fire Company.”
   The decision to become a career firefighter was an “easy one,” he said.
   ”How would you like to have a job and get paid for something you love to do as a volunteer,” he said. “Not many people can say they actually have their dream job. Other than my family and a few close friends, there is nothing better in my life then being a firefighter.”
   Chief Richard Kraemer referred to him as a “firefighter’s firefighter.”
   ”He has been a mentor to many and a man who lead by example,” said Chief Kraemer. “The department will miss a firefighter of his caliber.”
   For firefighter Emmons, the best part of the job is the “brotherhood that makes up a fire department.”
   ”We do everything together in a 24-hour shift,” he said. “We are always there for each other on and off duty. The chance to save a life or stop a fire from destroying someone’s property gives you the greatest feeling. There is nothing like it.”
   As he reflected back on his career and memories, he noted how he was honored in April 2009 for removing victims from a “toxic environment.”
   ”I was honored along with Capt. Joseph Troyano and firefighter Christopher Mull by our state union, the FMBA for actions taken removing victims from a toxic environment with no personal protection,” he said, adding the incident occurred on Aug. 25, 2008.
   The victims lived due to their quick actions, he added.
   ”The worst part of the job is knowing that every time you leave the building on a call, someone is having a bad day,” he said. “No one can imagine that feeling other than those in the emergency services.”
   As he starts his next chapter in life, he will be spending more time with his wife, Carol, his four children, grandchildren and friends.
   ”I will stay busy with my wife traveling, watching our two grandsons, having family and friend time and always upgrading and improving our home and property,” he said.