Gaston Fire honors two retiring legends
We gathered at the station on June 28 to celebrate the careers of Assistant Chief Ronald 'Chip' Hoodenpyl and Division Chief Galen Hoodenpyl.
Chip (left) served with distinction for 41 years, all as a volunteer, following in the footsteps of his father, Ron, who was with the district for five decades, including 36 years as chief. Two of his brothers also have served the district.
Galen is retiring after 33 years as a volunteer. Galen's brother, Jerry, remains as a division chief with 36 years of service.
For a little perspective, let's take a look at Chip's career. When he began answering calls at age 16, the United States was deeply involved in the Vietnam War, the Beatles were still together, man had just walked on the moon for the first time and Hee Haw had not yet appeared on television.
By comparison, Galen (right) is a youngster. The year he started, Jimmy Carter was President, the Beatles has disbanded but Elvis was still performing, and Hee Haw had competition from a miniseries called Roots.
The fire service changed tremendously during their time with us as well. The focus of the district shifted from fires to medical calls, training standards became extremely rigorous and the old mechanical pumpers were replaced with high-tech marvels controlled by computers.
Chip and Galen changed with the times and kept a sense of continuity through some turbulent times for the department. As leaders, mentors and friends, they have helped mold the lives of hundreds of young men and women who have served Gaston Fire over the years.
Gaston Fire is extremely proud to honor the careers of these extraordinary individuals.
