Mitch Chester – WVFD’s Own Georgia Boy
This week’s Firefighter Friday spotlight recognizes Mitch Chester, whose dedication to the Woodbury Volunteer Fire Department spans more than five decades.
Mitch grew up in Middle Georgia during the 1940s, 1950s, and 1960s. Following high school, he proudly served four years in the United States Air Force. The experience provided him with a strong foundation of duty, discipline, and camaraderie, qualities that would later serve him well as a volunteer firefighter.
In 1972, Mitch and his wife, Debbie Chester, made Woodbury their home. Not long after arriving, he was encouraged by the late Lee King to join the Woodbury Fire Department. Mitch was accepted into the department in September 1973, beginning a lifelong commitment to serving the community.
Much of his early firefighting and apparatus operation training came from the experienced members of the Hotchkissville Fire Company, an organization he remains proud to be a member of today. During the 1980s, Mitch furthered his training by completing the State of Connecticut’s Firefighter I and Firefighter II certification programs.
Over the years, Mitch has served in numerous leadership and support roles, including Lieutenant with the Hotchkissville Fire Company, Engineer on several fire apparatus, Secretary of the Hotchkissville Fire Company, and Treasurer of the Association of the Woodbury Fire Department for many years.
When asked about his years of service, Mitch reflects not on what he has given, but on what he has received. He believes he has been rewarded many times over through the friendships, experiences, and opportunities to serve alongside women and men of character, dedication, and selflessness. Together, they have worked to make Woodbury a safer and stronger community for all.
Thank you, Mitch, for your more than 50 years of unwavering service, commitment, and leadership. Your dedication has left a lasting impact on generations of firefighters and residents alike.
Thank you for your service, Mitch! 🚒🇺🇸👏
Fun Fact
Mitch joined the Woodbury Fire Department in September 1973 and continues to serve today, representing over five decades of volunteer service to the Town of Woodbury.
