Jess Gillmer was emotional as she recounted how residents and businesses jumped in to help the victims of the August 28 fire. (Credit: Hatfield Township/Facebook)
Resident Jessica Gillmer, dubbed the “Most Valuable Neighbor,” was praised for organizing donations, purchasing mattresses, and ensuring displaced families had essentials
Hatfield Township Commissioners began their Sept. 24 meeting recognizing the firefighters, police officers, emergency crews, volunteers, and residents who responded to the Aug. 28 fire at Hatfield Village Apartments, which displaced 21 families and damaged 24 units.
Commissioners President Tom Zipfel opened the ceremony by noting the community’s strength during the crisis.
“You didn’t just wake up on the 28th and say, ‘Hey, I’m going to volunteer today.’ It’s about all the years in advance of that where you trained and prepared so you could come in and save the day,” Zipfel said
Fire Marshal Mike Waldron and Deputy Fire Marshal/Code Enforcement Officer/Fire and Life Safety Inspector Mike McCann were the first to be recognized. Waldron, who responded on his day off, arrived within 10 minutes of the alarm. McCann, also a Hatfield volunteer firefighter, was among the first on scene.
“You’re our in-house Hatfield heroes,” Zipfel told them as they accepted commendations. “So, ‘Yo a true community champion, you make Hatfield a special place.’ And I have to tell you, I've handed out a lot of awards, but that's succinct, to the point, and a fantastic one. So, congratulations and thank you to both of you.”
Hatfield Fire Company Chief Steve Sherlock and firefighter Dean Minninger joined commissioners in honoring more than a dozen volunteers who arrived within minutes of the call.
Zipfel highlighted firefighter Andrew Lerch for cutting holes in a burning roof to contain the blaze.
“Engine 17 arrived in less than three minutes and four seconds from the call. So, let me put that into perspective just for a second. For those who don't realize it, we are standing amongst volunteers. They are not sitting there all day paid, and that's no reflection or negative reflection on anyone who's a paid firefighter,” Zipfel said. “But … these are the people who jump up in the middle of the night or in the middle of the day, rush to the firehouse, and then rush to the home to save not just person, but also property.”
“And I mean, talk about having a small town that takes care of its own,” Zipfel continued, commending Hatfield and Colmar volunteers. “The whole concept of volunteer firefighters is starting to dwindle and go away. We hold onto it strong with both of these companies and we're thrilled that both of you are so involved, and were here that day.”
Colmar Fire Company Deputy Chief Mark Vaillancourt accepted thanks on behalf of his crew, including Doug Cervi, Neil Franklin, a 53-year volunteer.
“Seven firefighters on the scene, in minutes,” Zipfel said.
Hatfield Police Chief Bill Tierney said his officers provided immediate support but credited the fire crews with leading the response.
“Our guys were there. We arrive, you take over all the big stuff. This is all for you,” Tierney said.
The commissioners also recognized VMSC ambulance staff, the American Red Cross, Hatfield Village management, and community volunteers.
Resident Jessica Gillmer, dubbed the “Most Valuable Neighbor,” was praised for organizing donations, purchasing mattresses, and ensuring displaced families had essentials.
Fighting back tears, she said, “I am so grateful and impressed with how everyone came together.”
Local businesses including Poppy’s Tavern, Hatfield Pizza, Walmart, and others were thanked for donating meals, supplies, and funds.
“Tonight is emblematic of Hatfield strong,” Zipfel said. “We all can sleep a little bit better each night knowing we have neighbors like you saving the day.”
