Longwood Fire Company Chief A. J. McCarthy shares a moment with President Brad Bowman, recently honroed by the company for his 40 years of service to the community.
EAST MARLBOROUGH — Longwood Fire Company President Brad Bowman was honored for his 40 years of service and made Chief Emeritus of the fire company during the fire company’s recent banquet.
Bowman said he has seen many changes in the company. “When I first joined we had five trucks, no EMS services, didn’t do rescues, were all volunteers and maybe handled 100 calls a year,” Bowman recalled. “Now we offer full emergency services to our coverage area and handle more than 600 calls and a total of more than 3,000 total calls a year.”
During the April 18 banquet Bowman was given a service plaque for his years of dedication and also an engraved chief’s helmet. During his years with Longwood, Bowman has been chief and held a number of positions within the fire company.
“Brad has dedicated himself to Longwood and service the community,” Chief A. J. McCarthy said. “He exemplifies what volunteerism is all about.”
When Bowman joined Longwood his grandfather, Wilson Bowman, and father Bradford Bowman, were members of the company. Bowman’s son Tyler is the fourth generation of the family serving at Longwood. “I want to thank my wife Linda to supporting me over the years,” Bowman said.
“I was 18 years old and a high school graduate ready for college when I began,” Bowman said. “I’ve been fortunate to be able to remain in this area. I’ve had a good run. I’ve worked with a lot of good people here at Longwood and made good friends. The goal of all of us is to serve the community.”
As for the next 40 years, Bowman admits to slowing down a little but believes he has a few good years ahead of him.
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.
