photo courtesy of Ridgewood Professional Firefighters FMBA Local 47
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, in Ridgewood, NJ, Senior Firefighter Engineer and EMT Matt Bombace is a true hometown hero, balancing life-saving rescues with a purple belt in Jiu Jitsu and a Doctorate in Education. As a member of Ridgewood Professional Firefighters FMBA Local 47 since 2009, Bombace’s incredible skills—from swiftwater rescue to teaching active shooter response nationwide—make him a standout in Bergen County. Dive into his inspiring story, from daring technical rescues to his passion for family and fishing, and see why he’s a pillar of the community in 2025!
Meet Matt Bombace: Ridgewood’s Firefighting Dynamo
Matt Bombace, a Senior Firefighter Engineer and EMT on Ridgewood’s B Platoon, has been a cornerstone of the Ridgewood Professional Firefighters FMBA Local 47 since joining as a volunteer in 2008 and going career in 2009. With certifications in Swiftwater Rescue, Ice Rescue, Dive Team operations, and Active Shooter Response instruction, Bombace is a force of nature. He also teaches “Stop the Bleed” and holds a Fire Instructor Level II certification, training first responders across the U.S.
But there’s more to Bombace than his badge. A purple belt in Jiu Jitsu, he’s competed in tournaments across the Tri-State area and even in Dublin, Ireland. When he’s not saving lives, he’s fishing, playing baseball, or spending time with his wife and two kids. In 2024, he embarked on a Doctorate in Education, proving his commitment to growth both on and off the job.
Memorable Rescues: Lives Saved Under Pressure
Bombace’s career is marked by high-stakes heroics. He recalls two unforgettable technical rescues: one involving a person trapped under a transit bus tire, and another pinned beneath a massive oak tree. “We put together an actionable plan and executed it quickly and efficiently,” he said. Both victims survived, a testament to Bombace’s skill and the Ridgewood FD’s teamwork. These rare, high-pressure calls stand out in a career filled with daily acts of bravery, like responding to utility wire fires in Ridgewood in 2025.
Why It Matters: Ridgewood’s Heroes in 2025
Bombace’s story highlights the dedication of Ridgewood’s firefighters, who go beyond the call of duty to keep Bergen County safe. His national training in active shooter response and expertise in swiftwater and ice rescue make him a vital asset, especially as NJ faces growing challenges like infrastructure fires and extreme weather. His pursuit of a doctorate shows a commitment to shaping the future of education and emergency services, inspiring the next generation.
In a community like Ridgewood, where events like the 9/11 Remembrance Run honor first responders, Bombace’s work reinforces the importance of local heroes. His blend of grit, skill, and heart makes him a role model for 2025.
How to Support Ridgewood’s Firefighters
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Follow Their Stories: Visit ridgewoodnj.net or follow Ridgewood FD on social media for updates.
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Donate: Support FMBA Local 47 initiatives or related charities like the Run For Hope Foundation at runforhopefoundation.org.
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Spread Awareness: Share Bombace’s story with hashtags like #RidgewoodFirefighters and #NJHeroes.
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Get Involved: Attend local events like Ridgewood’s 9/11 memorials to honor first responders.
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Contact: Reach the Ridgewood FD at 201-444-5400 for community programs or safety tips.
Keywords: support NJ firefighters, Ridgewood FD events, FMBA Local 47, Bergen County community support, 2025 first responder stories
A Hero’s Legacy in Bergen County
Matt Bombace is more than a firefighter—he’s a lifesaver, educator, and family man pushing the boundaries of heroism in Ridgewood. From daring rescues to international Jiu Jitsu competitions, his story is a beacon of inspiration in 2025. As Bergen County celebrates its first responders, Bombace’s dedication reminds us why local heroes matter.
Source: Adapted from Ridgewood Professional Firefighters FMBA Local 47 announcements and NorthJersey.com reports.
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Again, with the stupid puff pieces.
Nobody’s falling for this hero crap.
daily acts of bravery for a wire fire??? Pfffft.
Just like the teachers’ loans being paid are we paying for Mr. Bombace’s Doctorate?
What’s the real end game? ED for a future BOE position? sound familiar?? How many Bombace names have a pension attached to it in Ridgewood? Quite a few.
Ridgewood FD is saving basements, not the planet. Put your cape away and stop the BS.
100%.
Nepo entitlement.
Jeez, really. So early in the morning? Cranky or what?
Facts skippy….look it up
NJ Civil service database
You sound jealous and confused.
And what have you done with your sad miserable life?
Go get your GED
Dear union slob
Thinking it’s a matter of jealousy is only something said by a blue-collar civil servant living off the taxpayer’s dime.
Is that all you got?
My “miserable” life pays your salary and funds your pension yet you and the likes of your “Hero brothers” just don’t know when to shut up. You have a great scam and evidence of the continued PR campaign to tell us how great you are only highlights your shallow egos and necessity to justify your existence. I suggest that you govern yourselves accordingly.
It’s early yet but I think we have our post of the day !
He taking over the d p w when the head of the department is retired. Good for him.
He would be a good boss.
Congratulations, you’re gonna be a good boss you’re the man for the job.
I wonder who’s putting thumbs down, well who do you want to be the boss another ass kisser, another brainwash puppeteer, a hypocrite, but not on a Sunday right. Stop your bullshit.
We know who’s putting the thumbs down – the gang who’s reading this
and realizing holy shit the jig is up. As long as the Unions continue with the puff pieces, I will be here to tear them apart and expose them for what they really are. I mean really look at this picture of our “Hero”. You think our specimen here passed the NFPA physical with a BMI of less than 30?
Yea that’s what I thought. Shit he can’t even put a clip-on tie on properly!