Local News

Gallitzin firefighter hailed nationally

American Legion names Nagle, 72, Firefighter of the Year

GALLITZIN-- A local firefighter is being honored locally and nationally for his longevity and commitment to public service.

Robert C. "Herb" Nagle, 72, of Gallitzin was named the National American Legion and American Legion Pennsylvania Firefighter of the Year.

"I'm very humbled to receive this award," Nagle said. "I was very reluctant to apply for this award, because there are so many great firefighters out there. This is a great honor."

Nagle, who served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War and is a member of the American Legion, will receive his award from the state American Legion this weekend in Harrisburg.

He will be recognized nationally next month in Phoenix, Arizona.

"He is a very humble guy and was very deserving of the award," said Ray Lenz, who is a retired state American Legion commander and nominated Nagle for the award. "We are very proud to have him as part of our post."

Nagle was 17 years old when he joined the fire service in 1964 and filled a variety of roles with the Gallitzin Fire Company, including time spent as fire chief.

Now serving as the department's safety officer, he uses his knowledge and experience to ensure all fire ground procedures are executed safely.

"With the way manpower is today, there's times where there's too few people to answer the call and help," Nagle said. "That is one of the reasons I'm still so active. I'm fortunate to be able to do what I do."

Giving back to the community has been an emphasis for Nagle's family.

His father, Richard, was a life member of the Gallitzin Fire Company, and his grandfather, Robert Christy, was a chartered member at the department.

Nagle has a brother, Thomas, who was a member of the department as well.

"I was involved in the fire service from a very young age," Nagle said. "I was always trying to help out at the station when I was young."

Other members of his family have also followed suit to answer the call for help.

His daughter, Pam Adams, served as an emergency medical technician and now is a registered nurse.

"My family has a very rich history in the fire service and in public service, and I'm very fortunate for them," Nagle said.

A firefighter for the past 58 years, Nagle said he has no plans of stopping anytime soon.

"I can't let my community down by sitting down," Nagle said. "I'm fortunate to have great health, and I love what I do."

Mirror Staff Writer Calem Illig is at 814-946-7535.

The Nagle File

Name: Robert C. "Herb" Nagle

Age: 72

Hometown: Gallitzin

Department: Gallitzin Fire Company

Rank: Safety Officer

Military service: U.S. Army, Vietnam War