Rhome honored for 57 years in fire department
It’s no small feat to run into a burning building while everyone else is running out. Even more challenging is to do just that, time and time again, for 57 years.
Howard Franklin Rhome, a lifelong Canonsburg resident, was recognized Friday morning for his nearly six decades of active service in the Canonsburg Volunteer Fire Department. He received the Paul Harris Fellow recognition by the Rotary Club of Canonsburg, Houston and Southpointe.
Stephanie Urchick, a former trustee of Rotary Club, said the award is given to an “outstanding member of the community” who shows integrity and a dedication to vocational service. The organization donated $1,000 in his name, which could be used around the world in any of Rotary’s initiatives, such as polio eradication or education.
Rhome, 84, said his son, Canonsburg Mayor Dave Rhome, kept the award a surprise. But he knew something was fishy when he was told to come to King’s restaurant in uniform.
“My son over here, he always has tricks up his sleeves,” he joked.
Rhome started volunteering for the fire department after returning from service in the Korean War. He wanted to help the community, while also forming a fellowship with other firefighters.
“It’s the firemen before me that inspire me to keep going,” he said.
“He’s been an asset to our fire department,” said fire Chief Tom Lawrence. “He is the epitome of what volunteerism is.”
In addition to volunteering with the fire department, he is a member of the Pittsburgh Syria Shriners. Around Christmas, he dresses up like Santa Claus and visits children at Canonsburg Hospital. He also was commander of American Legion Post 253, a member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 191, a past member of the Elks Lodge, and chairman of the fire department’s children’s Easter egg hunt.
Dave Rhome, who was there with his brother, Dale, and other family members, said the award meant a great deal to them.
“We’re all in this together. We look for no accolades,” he said of his fellow firefighters, “but this morning was special for our family.”