Brent du Pont (center) receives Jim McGovern award from Chief A. J. McCarthy (left) and Brad Bowman Jr., President of the Board of Directors.
EAST MARLBOROUGH — Longwood Fire Company has presented its prestigious Jim McGovern Service Award to Brent du Pont.
The award was given during Longwood’s annual banquet. Also honored for his 20 years of volunteer service was Matt Ruoss. Ruoss served 18 years as a line officer and most recently as deputy chief. He was presented with a bronze bell on a walnut base for his service.
Ruoss, who lives in Kennett Square, is a fifth generation fire fighter. Many members of his family were connected with Longwood Fire Company. “It’s in my blood,” he said. Ruoss was the prior fire chief and has held all officer positions in the company. He has been a firefighter for a quarter century as he was a member of another company for five years before joining Longwood.
Matt Ruoss receives an award for 20 years of volunteer service from Chief A. J. McCarthy.
“Longwood is blessed with having many outstanding volunteers,” said Chief A. J. McCarthy. “Matt and Brent are two prime examples.”
The Jim McGovern Service Award is named for a dedicated Longwood firefighter who died at age 22. McGovern, a University of Delaware graduate, was a top responder during his time at Longwood Fire Company.
“I was surprised when I received the award. I didn’t expect to be named,” du Pont said. “I joined Longwood in 2010 to serve my community. Everyone at Longwood is great. I enjoy serving with them.”
When du Pont joined Longwood he was a resident of Pennsbury but has since moved to Wilmington. After the move du Pont decided to continue being a member of the fire company.
Longwood Fire Company has served the communities of Kennett, East Marlborough, Pennsbury and Pocopson townships since 1921. Longwood Fire Company provides fire and rescue and emergency medical services 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. For more information see www.longwoodfireco.com.
