Muncy Township firefighter honored as department celebrates 75 years

RALPH WILSON/Sun-Gazette Correspondent Austin Artley, 94, receives a proclamation from the state House of Representatives from Rep. Joe Hamm, R-Hepburn Township, during a 75th anniversary celebration at the Muncy Township Volunteer Fire Department in Pennsdale: May 18, 2024.

On the day that the Muncy Township Co. Volunteer Fire Department celebrated 75 years of serving residents as an emergency service, it was fitting to mark the occasion by saluting one of its founding members.

Austin Artley, 94, stood in front of fellow firefighters and supporters of the department to accept the community’s praise.

He was a member of that department in 1949, when firefighters were often unprepared to put out barn and house fires.

“We didn’t do it for the glory.” he said.

Artley served in many positions within the department, including captain, president, vice president and treasurer.

Perhaps his most important role was that of mentor.

“Austin was one of those guys you learn from.” said longtime Muncy Township firefighter Butch Dauberman.

Artley received a clock and official citation from state Rep. Joe Hamm, R-Hepburn Township.

“Seventy-five years is a long time.” Hamm said. “I am honored to recognize a founding member.”

Artley’s sons, Dennis and Keith, who were present, spoke briefly.

Firefighters expressed their appreciation for the time and dedication of department members, companies and other supporters who help keep the fire company in existence.

“How many lives can one firefighter touch?” Fire Chief Nick Palmatier asked.

Dauberman noted that the past built the department, but what happens today in the future will determine its fate.

He drew attention to the difficulties in recruiting young volunteers to the fire brigade.

Many people simply cannot find the time between work and meeting the increasing demands of firefighting training.

Corey Palmatier said the department always came together to get things done.

He emphasized the valuable contribution of the auxiliary ladies. As a longtime member of the auxiliary, Cathy Dauberman said it’s always about how you can help firefighters.

“The act of volunteering is transformative.” he said.

And she added that it gives a sense of community.

Lycoming County Department of Public Safety Director Jeff Hutchins noted that the city department is a real part of the community given the many fire and ambulance calls it responds to.

“We are lucky to still have this company.” he said.

Those gathered honored the memory of the deceased members of the fire brigade with a minute of silence.