Western Salisbury Fire Department volunteers gathered recently at a dinner at the St. Thomas More Family Center to mark the department's 55th year service anniversary.

Fire Chief Joshua Wells reviewed what he said was "one of our busiest years ever," saying the department's volunteers acted with "compassion, professionalism and a sense of duty" that should make every resident of our fire district proud of the services provided.

Responses by Western Salisbury fire crews to several major fires and a serious wreck and diesel fuel spill closing Interstate 78 for hours in May, were some of the highlights Wells praised.

Wells also thanked the spouses and significant others who supported the efforts of the volunteers when calls interrupt family time, meals or come in the middle of the night.

"Without your encouragement and support, we could not do what we do," Wells said.

Salisbury Township Ward 3 Commissioner Debra Brinton also praised the efforts of the volunteers and presented a donation on behalf of the township to support fire department operations.

Wells recognized each firefighter for years of service.

Firefighter Jerry Royer was recognized as the longest-serving current member with 37 years with the department.

Firefighter Ralph Uff was recognized for 31 years of service.

Wells also heaped praise and special recognition on Assistant Chief Dev Kannan who spent countless hours as chief engineer for the department and oversaw the pump rebuilding effort of a department engine that "greatly strengthens our firefighting capability by retrofitting current equipment to give us the capability of a much newer pumper without the expense of a new piece of expensive equipment," Wells said.