Plumstead Township, Bucks County, PA — August 12, 2026 — Plumstead Township marked an important milestone Wednesday evening with the swearing-in of its first career firefighters, establishing the initial career crew of the newly formed Plumstead Township Fire and Rescue Department.
The oath of office was administered by the Honorable Jeffrey G. Trauger, a lifelong Plumstead Township resident. Judge Trauger has a special connection to the Township's fire service. His late mother, Lois Hunsberger Trauger, was a longtime member of the Plumsteadville Volunteer Fire Company Auxiliary.
The initial career crew includes:
•    Rachel Brick, Plumstead Township Career Firefighter
•    Benjamin Morris, Plumstead Township Career Firefighter
•    Daniel Pfeiffer, Plumstead Township Career Firefighter
•    Harley Turner, Plumstead Township Firefighter, who was unable to attend the swearing-in ceremony
The career firefighters will serve as the initial crew of the Plumstead Township Fire and Rescue Department, led by Fire Chief William Weigman under the direction of Public Safety Director David Mettin.
The creation of a career fire crew represents a significant step in the Township's ongoing efforts to strengthen emergency response and provide a consistent level of fire protection and emergency services to the community. The career firefighters will work in coordination with Plumstead Township's volunteer fire companies and the dedicated volunteers who have served the community for generations.
Public Safety Director David Mettin emphasized the importance of the milestone and the responsibility that comes with establishing the Township's career fire service.
“This is an exciting and historic moment for Plumstead Township. These firefighters are becoming part of a long tradition of service provided by our volunteer fire companies, while also helping us build a stronger and more dependable response system for our residents. We are proud to welcome Rachel, Ben, Daniel, and Harley to the Township's fire service, and we look forward to the professionalism, dedication, and commitment they will bring to our community.”
Township officials also recognized the significance of having Judge Trauger administer the oath, given his family's connection to Plumstead's volunteer fire service.
“Having Judge Trauger administer the oath made this evening particularly meaningful,” said Township Manager Stacey Mulholland. “His family's connection to the Plumsteadville Volunteer Fire Company is a reminder of the long history of residents stepping forward to serve their neighbors. Tonight's ceremony honors that tradition while beginning a new chapter in Plumstead Township's fire and rescue services.”
The Township welcomes its first career firefighters and looks forward to their service to the Plumstead Township community.
About Plumstead Township Fire and Rescue
The Plumstead Township Fire and Rescue Department operates as part of the Township's combination fire protection system, working alongside the Township's volunteer fire companies to provide fire protection and emergency response throughout Plumstead Township.