With the unexpected death of Chief Kevin M. Shea just over a year ago, a leader and friend was lost. The future of the Elsmere Fire Company was unknown, and questioned by all. Who would now lead us and continue the pro-active direction established by Kevin and foster the respect needed to be the new Chief?
After holding a special election the decision was overwhelming decided by the membership that the new Chief would be Bill Webb. The experience Bill has in his professional career as a police officer. and also his familiarity with the civil office and fire line office of the Fire Company were beneficial. Having served a term as the Fire Company's Treasurer in 1987 he then began climbing the ladder of the Fire Line Offices beginning in 1989 as 3rd Lt. He served in that capacity until 1992 when he became the 1st Lt. of the Fire Company. Serving for three years in that capacity he then was elected to Captain where he also served for three years. Bill became the 2nd assistant Chief in 1997 and served that office for six years. In December of 2003 he was elected to 1st Assistant Chief. Less then three months later he was elected as the Chief of the Elsmere Fire Company A, Inc.
As Chief Bill has lead the membership through one of it's darkest periods. He has the respect of the membership and is committed to the fire safety of residents of the Elsmere Fire District. The American Legion Blanchard Post 1040 honors Chief William H. Webb, Jr. as the 2005 firefighter of the year.
