Daily Local News (West Chester, PA)
Melton honored for long service as fire chief; Plumley named new chief
KENNETT SQUARE» The man who has served as Kennett Square’s fire chief for the past 12 years was honored Monday night for his service to the community.
Steve “Monk” Melton retired last week as chief of Kennett Fire Company No. 1. He was succeeded by Chris Plumley, who was sworn in Monday night. Plumley has 14 years of active firefighting service.
“This is such an incredible man who has put forth a lot of sacrifice in serving as our fire chief,” said Matt Fetick, Kennett Square mayor as he handed Melton the Distinguished Service Award. “
Melton joined the Kennett Fire Company in 1985 when he was 18 years old. He progressed through the ranks to senior ladder man, senior rescue man and lieutenant before being named captain in 2003.
“It’s a long time of service to being committed and being the first one to every (fire) call,” Fetick said.
The citation Melton was given said he provided true leadership helping others, and that he sacrificed time away from family and friends to serve the community in times of emergencies.
“You really have to be dedicated to doing this for so long,” said John Thomas of Kennett Square, a former councilman. “I think it’s important to recognize the wives and children of these guys too.”
In addition to Chris Plumley who was sworn in as new fire chief, Mark Plumley, with 15 years of active firefighting service, was sworn in as new deputy chief, Bernie Mitchell, with 20 years of active firefighting service, was sworn in as assistant chief, and Melton was named battalion chief.
During his tenure, Melton was much more than a fire chief. He often helped with all kinds of borough emergencies and was employed as a public works employee.
Two years ago, Melton even helped to solve a burglary. He committed the description of a burglary suspect to memory and spotted him in the borough. While not in his of- ficial capacity as fire chief, he followed the suspect to his residence, notified police, and stayed there until police arrived. He earned a Citizen’s Certificate of Appreciation from the police department for his work.
Fetick said it was a privilege to swear in the new fire officers, adding the ser- vice of all volunteer firefighters must be recognized. To contact the Daily Local News, send an email to news@dailylocal.com or follow us on Facebook and Twitter: www. twitter.com/wcdailylocal, www.facebook.com/ dailylocalnews.