Basking Ridge Firefighter Honored For 50 Years Of Service

BASKING RIDGE, NJ — Mike Delgado was honored for serving five decades or 50 years on the Basking Ridge Fire Company by the Township, County, State, and Congressional figures.

Delgado was honored on Tuesday night with resolutions recognizing his service from the Bernards Township Committee, Governor Phil Murphy, Congressman Tom Kean Jr., Senator Jon Bramnick, Assemblywoman Nancy Munoz, and Assemblywoman Michelle Matsikoudis.

"We are safer because of you," said Committeewoman Jennifer Asay, who serves as the fire department liaison. "It was such a tremendous achievement that we wanted to ensure that you get the recognition that you so deserve. And I am very grateful to all of the levels of elected officials who we asked for support. They didn’t bat an eye."

Erin Darreff with Kean Jr.'s office, presented Delgado with a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition and a flag flown over the United States Capitol for his "50 years of selfless service to the Basking Ridge community."

"Firefighter Mike Delgado has dedicated half a century of his life to protecting our community, running towards danger as others flee," read Darreff.

Delgado joined the Basking Ridge Fire Company No. 1 on Dec. 12, 1975, continuing a proud family legacy by serving alongside his father, Gene Delgado.

Throughout his career, Delgado served in numerous leadership positions, including 3rd Captain from 1978 to 1979, 2nd Captain from 1980 to 1981, 1st Captain in 1982, Assistant Chief from 1983 to 1987 and again in 1992, and Chief from 1988 to 1989.

Delgado is widely recognized as one of the Company’s top responders who has answered countless late-night calls, mentored fellow firefighters, or assisted with community traditions such as placing the Christmas Tree in the center of town.

"You are an exceptional example of a life well-lived in service to others. I congratulate you on this recognition, and I look forward to celebrating your ongoing service and achievements in the Basking Ridge Fire Company for the years to come," said Committeewoman Ana Duarte McCarthy.

"It's increasingly difficult to find volunteers. And it's even more rare to find individuals who commit themselves to serving year after year. Decade after decade," said Committeeman David Tancredi."That's why it's such an honor to celebrate Mike Delgado, whose extraordinary 50 years of volunteer service stand as a remarkable example of dedication and loyalty to Bernards Township."

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