Abraham Pitre (third from left) receives congratulations after being sworn in as Fire Chief at Perth Amboy City Hall

The majority of the time when I go to City Hall, it’s to cover the Caucus and Council meetings.

On rare occasions I’ve also covered other municipal Board Meetings. Needless to say, the meetings have not always been pleasant and more often than not, there has been a lot of tension in the air.

The last time I attended an event at Perth Amboy City Hall was on Friday, March 28, 2014. I had the pleasure of being there when Abraham Pitre was sworn in as the new Fire Chief. I was also present at the swearing in of former Fire Chief Dave Volk – and that, too was a very joyous occasion.

Both times the Council Chambers were filled with proud family members and friends of those who were elevated to their new positions. This has included personnel in the Police or Fire Department who were being sworn in as new members.

The largest swearing in I attended included the promotion of eight firefighters and three police officers. I delight in watching the faces of those in the audience when their loved ones are sworn into office. This is something I never get tired of reporting or photographing.

Former Fire Chief David Volk with New Fire Chief Pitre

It was as if it was yesterday when David Volk was sworn in as Fire Chief with his wife and three daughters standing beside him. Chief Volk’s delightful mother was there, but unfortunately his Dad was too ill to attend.

I was impressed when reading the biography of Abraham Pitre. I can see why he was chosen for this position. He is a quiet, soft spoken and very respectful individual.

I believe that there is one important quality that Chief Pitre will have in common with retired Chief Volk which is an open line of communication.

In the past I have called Chief Volk during the weekend to ask a question related to fires in Perth Amboy. He always called back the same day.

Listening to Chief Pitre speaking after he was sworn in, I had the same feeling that he will be just as accommodating.

My congratulations to the new Fire Chief and best wishes and happy retirement to Dave Volk.

Looking at the photo above, they both look like they are enjoying where they are right now.

C.M.