Joshua Appleby continues his lifelong commitment to service, which began when he enlisted in the Army National Guard after graduating high school. Now, he leverages the skills and lessons he learned throughout his service to keep the community safe as a volunteer firefighter and EMT at New Kingstown Fire Company.
“I enlisted at 17 when I was still in high school. I did it to carry on a family tradition of serving in the military, and because I felt it was my duty to do so,” he stated. “My unit was based out of Chambersburg, but I trained and deployed across the country.”
Joshua retired at the rank of an E-4 Specialist. Prior to joining New Kingstown Fire Company in 2018, Joshua worked as an EMT and a laborer doing commercial demolition. He decided to join the fire company after hearing about the camaraderie among members and professionalism.
“My favorite part about volunteering is the aggressive firefighting mindset and family atmosphere,” he said.
New Kingstown Fire Company is one of the 21 fire companies in the Capital Region Firefighter volunteer recruitment campaign. No prior experience is needed to join, and training and gear are provided to all volunteers at no cost.
“It is incredibly rewarding when running calls, and you are taught various life lessons and useful tips, not just firefighting information. You’ll also gain another family, one not of blood but of shared experience and sacrifice,” he added.
If you want to serve your community and make a difference, there’s likely a nearby fire company and a position based on your skills, interests and availability. Visit www.CapitalRegionFirefighter/Contact/ to sign up to volunteer.