Rudy Thomas always wanted to be a firefighter.
“It was something I always wanted to do as a little boy,” he said. “Growing up in Philadelphia, I dreamed of becoming a Philadelphia firefighter. But God had a different plan for me.”
That plan was realized back in 2002, while Moorestown Fire Department was attending to a call across the street from Rudy’s home. He met Battalion Chief Bickmore Sr., and through conversation, inquired about how to become a volunteer. The rest is history — he’s been with Moorestown Fire Department ever since.
In his almost 21 years with Moorestown, Rudy has been appointed as crew leader, lieutenant, captain, battalion chief, and deputy chief. His experience has been rewarding and given him the opportunity to live out his childhood dream and what he says is his calling in life.
“I’m very fortunate to have the ability to work each day doing what it is that I’ve always wanted to do, which is to serve people in my community,” he said.
What he enjoys the most though is mentoring the junior volunteers of the department by assisting in their growth and development.
“It’s critical to ensure that whose who are coming behind us have all the essential skills and characteristics to be successful and represent themselves, their department and their profession well,” he said.
For those who may consider volunteering with Moorestown or their local department, Rudy stresses the importance of understanding the dedication and time involved, but to know that there are many benefits.
“Firefighting is one of the most rewarding and noble professions in the world,” Rudy said. “It may be hard, but it teaches you to become responsible, a critical thinker and a quick decisionmaker. You’re already an efficient firefighter if you are a good team player!”
When he’s not fighting fires and mentoring the next generation of volunteers, he is still a busy man. Rudy and his wife, Billie, have been married for 23 years. He is father of five and a grandfather of six. He serves as the Chaplain for the department and is the Deputy Public Information Officer; is the Deacon at his church, Tabernacle Baptist Church in Burlington, NJ; and is a DJ for his internet radio station, W.H.I.Z. radio.
Volunteer with Moorestown Fire Department, fill out an inquiry form at http://www.MoorestownFire.org/.
