WELLSBURG - After more than 30 years of serving Brooke County in one capacity or another, John Schwertfeger has retired from his position as the Brooke County Director of Emergency Medical Services.
Commissioners recognized Schwertfeger on Tuesday during the Brooke County Commission meeting among family, friends and co-workers.
Commission President Marty Bartz said Schwertfeger has been employed with Brooke County for many years. He said he started out as a county school bus driver, has been a dispatcher and even worked for the police department. Bartz said the Brooke County Ambulance has made the safety of the people in Brooke County as a top priority under the direction of Schwertfeger and the organization has done a wonderful job.
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HONORED – Brooke County Commissioners recognized John Schwertfeger, former Brooke County EMS director, for his dedication and service to Brooke County. Schwertfeger was joined by family and friends on Tuesday as he celebrated his retirement. Pictured from left is Brooke County Commission President Marty Bartz, Schwertfeger and Commissioner Tim Ennis. -- Angelina Dickson
"We've been blessed to have him," he added.
Schwertfeger, who also is the Follansbee police chief, said he would like to thank his wife and parents for their support throughout the years.
"You have an aggressive crew and a good system in place that won't let you down," said Schwertfeger.
Bartz said the service in McKinleyville, established by Schwertfeger, is a top notch service and something Schwertfeger can and should be proud of. He said it's been an honor having Schwertfeger as a Brooke County employee and wished him the best.
During the July 18 meeting, the commission appointed Bob Fowler to the dual role of overseeing the county's ambulance service and as emergency management director, coordinating training for and response to various emergencies by the county's various emergency departments.
"You have some big shoes to fill," said Bartz to Fowler.
Fowler said he will strive with the ambulance service's hard-working staff to maintain the same high quality of service for the residents in Brooke County.
(Dickson can be contacted at adickson@weirtondailytimes.com)
