When New Jersey lowered the minimum age to be a firefighter to 18 in 1973, Robert Winter was the first to sign up.
His first call as a high school student was to deliver a baby.
He has served in firehouses in Bergenfield, Allendale, Mahwah and Vernon.
Winter has been involved in his community in many ways, including educating children about fire safety.
He was recognized for his 50 years of service on April 30 at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Hamburg where he is a member.