Chief Matthew Martin, who began his career in public safety as a teenager with the Pennington Fire Company, is retiring at the end of 2024 after 17 years as the chief of Hopewell Valley Emergency Services. Over his 26-year career, Martin rose through the ranks, earning the respect of colleagues and community members for his dedication and leadership.
From the time Matthew Martin joined the Pennington Fire Company at 17 years old, he knew he was destined for a career in public safety.
“It was just a great fit,” Martin said. “The thought of helping others was something that I learned at the firehouse and it has never left me”.
Following graduation from Hopewell Valley Central High School Martin remained a member of the Pennington Fire Company where he rose through the ranks becoming the Penningon Fire Company Deputy Chief. During his time here, he also became an active member of the Pennington First Aid Squad and responded to many calls for medical emergencies.
Chief Martin has always put others ahead of himself, exemplifying the true spirit of emergency services
– Erick Burd, Hopewell Township Board of Fire Commissioners Chair
In 1998, Martin was hired as a specialist with the Hopewell Valley Emergency Services. Again, he rose through the ranks until being named Chief in 2007, a post he has held for 17 years.
When asked about the highlights of his career, the Chief shared, “It has been my honor and privilege to serve the residents and visitors of Hopewell Valley. I am proud of our volunteers and career staff, and I have watched them work together when life and property have been at risk. I have been very fortunate to be associated with all who have supported me throughout my career.”
When asked if there was anything that he wished that he could have completed, but couldn’t, he said, “I wish we could have built a better facility for our volunteers and career staff to jointly work from. With the influx of new residents, there will surely be the need for additional emergency services in our Valley”.
Chief Martin said he wants to thank his family, colleagues, friends, and especially the volunteers of Hopewell Valley for all of their support during his 26-year career.
Erick Burd, the Chairman of the Hopewell Township Board of Fire commissioners said recently, “Chief Martin has always put others ahead of himself, exemplifying the true spirit of emergency services. His dedication, compassion, and selflessness have made lasting impacts on his community and all the first responders he has served with. I sincerely wish Chief Martin all the best in his retirement.”
When asked about his future plans, the Chief responded, “I want to take some family time and then we will see where the future leads.”
Deputy Chief Jonathan (JD) Moore will be sworn in as the next Chief on January 1, 2025, continuing the legacy of leadership within Hopewell Valley Emergency Services.
