This evening 10 members attended the Delaware County Fireman’s Association’s 112th Anniversary Awards Banquet held at the Springfield Country Club. 58 year Life Member Gerry Davis was awarded the Pio Zappasodi Congressional Fire Service Award. This award is named after the late Pio “Pete” Zappasodi a long time member of the Delaware County Fireman’s Association who represented the 8th District on the Executive Board. Congressman Curt Weldon presents this award annually to an individual who has helped the fire service in Delaware County.

Gerry joined the fire company in 1960. 8 years later Gerry would start his first tenure as department Chief holding the Chief’s position from 1968-1975. Gerry would also serve the company in the roles of President and Safety Officer before serving his second tenure as Chief from 1997-2001. In 1997, Gerry was appointed Bethel Township Fire Marshal a position he would hold until 2002. In 2002, Gerry relocated to the Oxford, Chester County area where he has continued to serve his community as a volunteer firefighter joining the Union Fire Company of Oxford, PA. As a member of Union Fire Company Gerry has held the positions of Assistant Chief, Safety Officer and Director. Gerry is also a U.S. Army veteran and life member of the Delaware County Firemen’s Association.

In 2012, Gerry was diagnosed with and has undergone treatment for multiple myeloma. Multiple myeloma is a blood cancer that develops in the plasma cells found in the bone marrow. Gerry has spoken at numerous fire departments stressing to firefighters the importance of maintaining and keeping clean personal protective equipment and educating firefighters on PA Act 46 of 2011 The Firefighter Cancer Presumption Law, which designates cancer as an occupational disease for firefighters. Gerry has shown lifelong devotion, support and commitment to the fire service of Delaware County in an outstanding manner. Congratulations Chief and well deserved!

Thank you to Milmont Fire Co. (49) for covering the Bethel local while members attended the banquet.