Photo provided to the Times Observer Arden “Bucky” Knapp, third from left, was recognized during the Warren County Fair by local legislators for his 65 years of volunteer fire service. In the photo are, from left, State Sen. Scott Hutchinson, Linda Knapp, Bucky Knapp and State Rep. Kathy Rapp.

A longtime volunteer responder has been recognized by local legislators.

Arden “Bucky” Knapp was honored at the Warren County Fair by State Sen. Scott Hutchinson and State Rep. Kathy Rapp.

Hutchinson in his weekly update said he was “honored” to recognize Knapp for “his many years of dedicated service to community and country.”

Knapp told the Times Observer he first joined up at the age of 16 with the Lander VFD for 10 years before shifting to what has turned into a 55 year career with the Pleasant VFD.

“Amazingly, Bucky recently reached his 65th year of volunteer fire service,” Hutchinson said. “He has served as the department’s head engineer, assistant chief and chief, and now volunteers his time as a fire police officer.”

“I consider everybody brothers and sisters,” Knapp recently told the Times Observer for a story on his service. “That was instilled growing up.”

“Being a member here… it’s just the camaraderie,” he said. “It’s been a good run. I’ve gotten to know a lot of good guys…. It’s fulfilling to give back to the township.”

“Bucky is also a veteran of the Vietnam War, during which he served this country with honor and distinction,” Hutchinson added. “He was joined at the presentation by his loving wife, Linda.”