BOSWELL – Volunteer firefighter John Pokos, 92, has been serving the Boswell community since he was a spry 17-year-old.
His dedication to the fire service was recognized Monday when Pennsylvania State Fire Commissioner Bruce Trego honored Pokos for his 75 years of service during a ceremony before his family, fellow firefighters, state and county officials.
“It’s great to be here. At 92, it’s great to be anywhere,” Pokos quipped.
Trego presented a certificate of appreciation signed by Gov. Tom Wolf to Pokos at Boswell Fireman’s Grove on Hower Avenue.
“It is my pleasure to join with your family, friends and colleagues to recognize your dedicated service to the Boswell Volunteer Fire Department,” the certificate said.
“Firefighters embody the true definitions of bravery, sacrifice and civic duty. During the course of your 75 years as a volunteer firefighter, you were given the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of countless Pennsylvanians through your hard work and commitment to protecting the citizens.
“I applaud you for approaching each day with dedication, loyalty and responsibility,” the certificate said. “It is my hope that you reflect with great pride on the work you have done, the lives you have touched and all you have achieved.”
Pokos said he was honored and thanked the community for its support of the fire department.
“Without their help we would have nothing,” he said. “Thank you, thank you, thank you.”
Pokos also was given a certificate of appreciation from Trego, a certificate from the Special Court Judges Association of Pennsylvania and a resolution passed by Somerset County Commissioners recognizing his 75 years of service.
Although Pokos no longer fights fires, he still remains active as a member of the Boswell Volunteer Fire Department’s board of directors.
He and his wife, Stella, have three sons and four grandchildren.
Patrick Buchnowski is a reporter for The Tribune-Democrat. He can be reached at 532-5061. Follow him on Twitter @PatBuchnowskiTD.
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