Former Jim Thorpe Fire Chief Bruce Shanfelt was honored at a testimonial dinner held at Jim Thorpe’s Memorial Hall, recognizing the fireman’s longtime devotion to the fire service upon his resignation to spend more time with his family.

Shanfelt, who served eight years as the fire chief and many more in various firefighting capacities, received numerous plaques and praises from firemen from Jim Thorpe’s four companies.

Pat McGinley, who succeeded Shanfelt as the fire chief, said the transition took place smoothly because Shanfelt “laid all of the tracks before the train left the station.”

In all, Shanfelt gave 27 years of service to the fire Jim Thorpe fire departments.