At the April 25 East Allen Township Board of Supervisors meeting, a dedicated, active, longtime volunteer was honored. John McDevitt was recognized for his 45 years of volunteer service to the township as its fire chief, deputy chief, assistant chief, emergency management coordinator and more.

The monthly meeting agenda was discarded and replaced with a one-topic agenda for a special person. Township Manager Brent Green read a proclamation from the board, commending McDevitt for his 45 years of unselfish volunteer efforts.

According to the proclamation, April 25 will forever be “John McDevitt Day” in East Allen Township. Additionally, the access road to East Allen Township Volunteer Fire Department was signified by the board of supervisors as John McDevitt Way.

“Who falsified [this proclamation]?” McDevitt joked.

“I am seldom lost for words,” he said, noting he was left speechless by the honor.

He thanked the board members for their kind words and sentiments.

Joining the board to recognize McDevitt were some of his fire department colleagues; state Rep. Zach Mako, R-183rd; and a representative from the office of state Sen. Nick Miller, D-14th. He was thanked by Miller’s legislative representative and Mako for his longevity and for all the work and hours he performed for East Allen Township Volunteer Fire Department and the township community.

“I’m a little overwhelmed, but I’m smiling,” McDevitt said. “These 45 years serving the fire department and businesses and the community - I can’t explain it; it’s been wonderful. I am happy to make it this far in my life to be able to stand back and am happy having done this.”

The meeting concluded with fire department leaders and members and meeting attendees lining up to hug and shake McDevitt’s hand in congratulations.

Visit eastallenfire.org to read more about the McDevitt celebration, how to support the fire department and how to become a volunteer firefighter for the department and the community.