By DON STINE
Alan Dowling, a 34-year veteran with the Wanamassa Fire Company, was recognized Monday by the Ocean Township Council for entering a burning building last month and rescuing a 92-year-old woman.
Dowling lives in the township’s Wanamassa section and across the street from the Maple Avenue house that exploded due to a gas leak and caught fire in the early hours of Nov. 3.
“Dowling truly did something that demonstrates courage,” said Mayor William F. Larkin at Monday’s meeting when the firefighter was presented with a special proclamation.
Larkin said Dowling “cast aside any fear or doubt” and entered the smoking and burning building without any safety equipment.
“He truly put his life at stake and should be commended for his bravery,” he said.
“The 92-year-old woman would not have made it through the fire if it were not for the efforts of Alan,” Larkin said.
Dowling said he was happy to receive the proclamation but added that he believes all firefighters deserve a proclamation.
“Everybody deserves one for what we do. That’s the way I feel about it. I just happened to be there,” he said.
Members of both the Oakhurst and Wanamassa fire departments, as well as members of Oakhurst Boy Scout Troop 70, attended the meeting to honor Dowling.
Deputy Mayor J. David Hiers said firefighters put their lives in extreme peril and risk and that the community is “blessed with its volunteer community.”
“At times when people need you, you are there and we cannot say thank you enough,” he said.
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