Henry Walldorff, Lifelong Member of the West Dunkirk Volunteer Fire Company, Honor For His Dedicated Service

DUNKIRK – A faithful servant to the community, Henry Walldorff, an original member of the West Dunkirk Fire Department, has been answering alarms and assisting residents in need in the community since before he even graduated from high-school.

Over his nearly 65 years with the department, Mr. Walldorff has held numerous leadership positions, and at the age of 82 he remains an active member of the department. After the West Dunkirk Fire Department was chartered in March 1951, Henry Walldorff was one of the first residents to become a member in the new department. He served as chief of the department in 1967 and ’68, and again in 1973. Elected as the department’s treasurer in 1982, Henry Walldorff continues to fill that role today. 

A certified Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) since 1973, Henry Walldorff acted as the West Dunkirk Fire Department’s primary EMT for nearly 43 years, before announcing his retirement in January 2016. In addition to responding to calls, Mr. Walldorff also was a certified EMT instructor from 1997 until 2015.

During the recent West Dunkirk Fire Department’s annual banquet, Senator Catharine Young (R,C,I- 57th District) joined department members in honoring Henry Walldorff for his tireless service to the community.

Senator Young presented Mr. Walldorff with a New York State Senate Proclamation honoring his service, and the department announced that Rescue Truck 121 will be dedicated in Henry’s honor.

“Henry Walldorff has been a pillar of service with the West Dunkirk Volunteer Fire Company. All of his fellow firefighters have a story about how Henry has made a positive impact on their firefighting careers. What’s most apparent when you talk to the other department members is the reverence with which they all hold Henry in. He is remarkably humble about his service and is truly deserving of the recognition that has been bestowed upon him,” said Senator Young.

West Dunkirk Fire Department Chief James Gee Jr., said, “It’s an honor to have Henry in the department. His dedication and willingness to teach others will be greatly missed not only in the department, but county wide. Henry has taught many EMTs and his knowledge and legacy will be carried through their service.”