Richland Volunteer Fire Department celebrates 75 years of service

The Richland Volunteer Fire Department is marking a milestone with its 75th anniversary.

Chief Jim Kelly and other Richland VFDmembers were honored at the April 19 Richland board of supervisors meeting. Kelly, who has been with the department for 28 years and served as chief for the past 15, introduced his fellow members Vic Csellar, Joe Pillart and Cindi McWilliams.

State Rep. Robert W. Mercuri, R-Pine, was at the meeting to present a citation on behalf of the commonwealth recognizing the fire department’s service to the community.

“I grew up nearby in West Deer Township, but I was a frequent visitor to this area. We never had to worry about whether we have a response to a call either in our neck of the woods or out here — and it’s folks like you all that keep us safe. There’s good people here stepping up and locking arms and serving the community,” Mercuri said.

Richland Township manager Dean Bastianini also presented the fire department with a citation recognizing their 75th anniversary on behalf of the township.

“Today as we remember the past, we also look forward to the challenges and successes of the future. Thank you for your integrity, your courage and your dedication,” Bastianini said.

Richland resident Cal Miller spoke about how much the fire department has meant to him personally. He recalled childhood memories of being able to meet the firefighters as an elementary school kid and sit in the firetruck. He also made mention of the fire department’s emergency response to his father’s heart events.

“When I think of the road of life, the good and the not so good, those memories of seeing the fire department are good memories,” Miller said.

Township officials on April 19 also celebrated being recognized once again as one of Allegheny County’s Banner Communities as part of Local Government Week.

“I think one of our goals is to have the people that live in Richland want to spend the rest of their lives here. We don’t ever take it for granted what people do and what risks they take to make this a better place to live. I’m glad to be a small part of that and I really appreciate the volunteers to make this the community that it is,” Bastianini said.