Father and son, Peter and Tristan Thompson, joined Merion Fire Company of Ardmore in 2023. (Credit: Com Solutions Group).
In many Montgomery County families, volunteer firefighting is a shared passion, passed down from father to child. These firefighting fathers are inspiring a new generation to give back to their community. Those interested in volunteering with their local fire company can visit www.montcofirefighters.org for more information.
Peter Thompson and his Son Tristan Prove There’s No Time Like the Present to Give Back to the Community
Father and son, Peter and Tristan Thompson, joined Merion Fire Company of Ardmore in 2023. Despite their busy lives—Tristan is a student at Temple University and Peter runs his own law practice—they made the decision to volunteer as firefighters together.
“I get to spend more time with my dad while doing something meaningful,” said Tristan.
For Tristan, volunteering also provides a refreshing break from traditional academics and reading textbooks.
“I receive hands-on training and conquer life-saving skills I don’t learn in class,” he said.
All training and gear are provided to volunteers at no cost. Training ranges from CPR and first aid to fire suppression and rescue techniques.
“I remember right after getting CPR certified, I went on a cardiac arrest call and performed CPR,” said Tristan. “It was a surreal experience.”
Both father and son find deep fulfillment in giving back, especially as a team.
“Tristan is honest, honorable, caring and gung-ho. He’s not going to do anything halfway,” said Peter. “And we’re not doing it for money. We’re doing it because there’s a critical need.”
Tristan agrees. Firefighting can be emotionally intense, and he finds comfort in his dad’s steady presence and sense of humor.
“People get excited when my pop walks in with his lighthearted and positive energy,” said Tristan. “We have fun and make the most of it, but it’s all business when the bell goes off.”
Peter takes pride in watching his son give back to the community and get involved.
“It’s amazing to share something so meaningful with your son or daughter,” said Peter. “You meet some of the best people in the world, too.”
Volunteers from all walks of life play a vital role in keeping communities safe. There are many volunteer opportunities at fire companies in Montgomery County, such as firefighter, junior firefighter, administrative member or EMT.
Fire Chief Lee Greenberg Inspired Both Son and Daughter to Fight Fires
Chief at Horsham Fire Company, Lee Greenberg, volunteers with his 21-year-old daughter, Anna, and 18-year-old son, Josh. Following in their father’s footsteps, the two joined the fire company when they turned 16 as junior firefighters.
“Growing up at the firehouse is my favorite thing about my childhood,” said Anna. “My dad taught me everything I know.”
Josh shares the same sentiment when it comes to volunteering with his father.
“He’s a great leader and I know he’s always there if we need him,” said Josh.
Josh also volunteers close to his local college and is enrolled in the fire company’s live-in program. In exchange for responding to emergency calls, he has free housing at the fire house.
“I never would’ve known about the live-in program if I didn’t volunteer where I grew up in Montgomery County,” said Josh. “Responding to emergencies gives something meaningful to do on the weekends and I know my stuff is safe while I’m there.”
Anna is a day care teacher and finds it easy to balance her career with volunteering.
“I always knew I wanted to help people, and firefighting felt like the perfect way to do that,” said Anna.
One training stood out to her early on.
“RIT training, which is learning how to rescue a firefighter, really stuck with me,” said Anna. “It’s the kind of situation you hope never happens, but we need to be ready for it.”
When the emergency call comes in, no matter what, everyone has each other’s backs. The fire company has become a close-knit community for her and her family.
“I’ve been on a ton of calls with my daughter,” said Lee. “Although she’s very petite, I love seeing her doing things that people twice her size can’t do.”
For many volunteers, it’s more than responding to emergency calls, it’s the sense of pride and community that keeps them coming back.
“It’s the best feeling ever getting off that truck after a call,” said Josh. “And you met people you’d never have met before.”
Frank and Michael Burton Come from a Legacy of Volunteer Firefighters
This year will be Frank Burton’s 54th year of service as a volunteer firefighter. His son, Michael, has been an official volunteer firefighter for 25 years. Frank is a third-generation volunteer firefighter, making Michael fourth generation.
“My dad was always my hero,” said Michael. “He taught me how important it is to serve the community.”
From a young age, Frank would bring Michael to the firehouse with him.
“I figured, why play with the little trucks when he could play with the big ones,” said Frank.
That early exposure sparked something in Michael. He became a junior firefighter at age 16, went on to earn Rookie of the Year, and eventually served as fire chief for three years and president for three years. Frank previously served as president as well.
“We went to the firemen’s convention and marched in parades together, and responded to calls side by side,” said Frank.
One of those calls was the Millennium fire on August 13, 2008 in Conshohocken. Both battled the fire not knowing where each other was but knowing each other was there.
“I probably took years off my dad’s life,” said Michael. “I was always in the thick of it.”
Michael's early experience in the fire service paved the way for his career in public safety. In 2008, he became a full-time police officer.
“I wouldn’t be where I am today without my background in the fire service,” he said. “It gave me a strong foundation.”
Volunteering at a young age doesn’t just build character—it can also open doors for a lifelong career or boost one’s resume.
“I’m incredibly grateful to have watched my son grow into the dedicated volunteer firefighter and service-orientated person he is today,” said Frank. “My grandson doesn’t know it yet, but he’ll be the fifth generation.”
Regardless of Family Background, Volunteers are Needed in Montgomery County
Some families have a long tradition of service, while others are just beginning, but all are welcome to join their local fire company and make a difference in the community.
“We need volunteers of all different backgrounds to help protect our community,” said President of the Montgomery County Fire Chiefs Association Chris Schwartz. “Training and gear are provided at no cost.”
To learn more about volunteer opportunities or how to get involved, visit www.montcofirefighters.org.
