Cornwall Firefighter With More Than 50 Years Of Valuable Service

The Wolf Den of Heroes continues for 2025, and we look forward to celebrating a first responder you know in the upcoming months. Nominate the first responder in your life today. Each month during the year, The Wolf teams up with Mid Hudson Pump and MHA of Dutchess County to select one of our area's first responders to be inducted into the Wolf Den of Heroes from among everyone who has been nominated to date. 

Meet the Wolf Den Hero Inductee for July 2025

This month's Wolf Den inductee is Chester "Pa" Gardner, also known around his firehouse as Chet. Chet has been a volunteer firefighter with the Highland Engine Company #1 in Cornwall, New York, for 52 years. He is a humble person who, over the years, has helped not only his community but also younger firefighters learn the ropes.

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July Wolf Den Inductee has Over 50 Years of Volunteer Service

Chet recently received an award for his 50 years of service, along with a Top Responders Award for attending the most calls. He is often spotted at community events giving even more of his time.

Along with being a firefighter during 911 and COVID, Chet has also been a bus driver, a private pilot, and a Central Hudson employee. Avery, who nominated Chet, shared that he can always make people laugh and put a smile on their faces. She also reminded us that Chet is still an active member of Highland Engine Company #1 as the ladder truck driver.

READ More: Hudson Valley Firehouse Events Coming Up Soon

Nominate A First Responder for the Wolf Den of Heroes

Please take a moment to tell us about a first responder you know. Nominate them to be inducted into the Wolf Den of Heroes. Tell us their story and why you believe they deserve to be recognized for their efforts in our community.

If you want to nominate a first responder, fill out the form on our website. Be sure to take a minute to share some information about the First Responder you are nominating, and please feel free to send us a picture or two. We look forward to putting a spotlight on someone you know.