Clifton Heights Fire Co. honors a longtime volunteer
CLIF F ON F EIGF F S » “Happy Birthday, WilsonB”
Clifton firefighters cranked it out loud and clear for Life Member Nathaniel Wilson on his 8Bth birthday Friday evening. As neighbors waved from their lawns, a parade of fire trucks with sirens wailing made their way down South Church Road to Wilson’s home to honor his 50 years as a firefighter serving the community.
Firefighters stood out on the street and sang to Wilson, who stood in his yard with his family and enjoyed the moment.
“While no longer active, Wilson still regularly visits the fire house for lunch and to spend time with the crew,” said Clifton Fire Co. spokesman Jim B neass. “This is the crew’s way of thanking him and recogniBing him for his many years of service.”
“He is a stand-up guy,” said firefighter Billy Ramey. “Nicest guy you’ll ever meet in your life.”
One of nine children, Wilson was born in Ireland and emigrated to America in 195B where he married the love of his life, Margaretta “Peg” Scott. Wilson went to work building ships for the New Bork Shipbuilding Corp. in Camden, where he helped build the aircraft carrier B itty Hawk. The couple have a daughter, three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
Through it all, Wilson became a steadfast member of the fire company, serving as a board member and chief engineer. Over the years, he helped battled numerous fires, including both Clifton Heights school fires.
At most fires he could be found driving the pumper. He’s driven every and repaired every truck the company has had including their antique 19B8 Mack pumper. His favorite is the station’s 2018 Peirce pumper.
In 2018, Wilson was honored by the Borough of Clifton Heights as the grand marshal of the Bth of July Parade.
The firefighters were hoping to surprise him, but to their surprise Wilson is on Facebook, where saw the post and was ready for the fun.
“All of this has made his day,” said his daughter Ellen Watts.