Seventy years of service earned a West Walworth firefighter one of the state’s highest honors.
State Sen. Pam Helming presented a New York State Senate Commendation Award to Darwin Welker during the West Walworth Volunteer Fire Department’s annual banquet, recognizing his seven decades of service.
Welker joined the department in October 1955 and went on to serve in nearly every leadership role over the years. His service included terms as sergeant at arms, board member, third, second, and first assistant chief, chief, captain of TA-9, and captain of E-38. He often served multiple terms in those roles.
The Welker family has been connected to the West Walworth Volunteer Fire Department since its founding.
The Senate Commendation Award is one of the highest honors a New York state senator can present. It recognizes individuals whose long-standing leadership, volunteerism, and commitment have made a lasting impact on their communities.
“Darwin Welker embodies the very best of public service,” Helming said. “This Commendation Award reflects our deep gratitude for his extraordinary seventy years of protecting his neighbors and strengthening the West Walworth Fire Department.”
Helming also thanked firefighters across the region for the sacrifices they make to keep communities safe.
The West Walworth Volunteer Fire Department continues to serve as a key part of community safety and civic pride. Honoring Welker, organizers said, reflects both his remarkable record and the appreciation of the community he served for generations.
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