Longtime Haverford Twp. firefighter retires as chief after 43 years

HAVERFORD TOWNSHIP, Pennsylvania (WPVI) -- John Viola is known to wear many hats in Haverford Township. Not only is he the Police Chief, but he just finished serving as a Fire Chief for over 40 years.

Viola recalls joining the Brookline Fire Company when he was just a teenager in 1967.

Over the years, he responded to many fires, including one in which he personally rescued a baby girl from a second-story window. He was presented with a medal of valor.

He says anyone in his company would have done the same.

In December, The Haverford Township Board of Commissioners presented him with a proclamation for his years of volunteer service.



For the first time in 40 years, the fire company has a new chief in Steven Poole, a fellow longtime firefighter.

Watch the video above to hear John Viola reflect on a lifetime of service.

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