Ridgewood Fire Chief Honored by the Defense Department

Protecting the Frontlines at Home: Why This New Jersey Fire Chief Just Won a Major National Security Award

photo courtesy of the Village of Ridgewood

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, In a powerful demonstration of community spirit and national service, Ridgewood Fire Chief John Judge has been honored with the prestigious Patriotic Employer Award.

The recognition spotlights a critical but often overlooked aspect of national security: the immense local support required to keep America’s military reserves and National Guard mission-ready.

Behind the Award: Sustaining Freedom from Bergen County

The Patriotic Employer Award is granted to supervisors who go above and beyond in “contributing to national security and protecting liberty and freedom.” It honors employers who actively support and accommodate their staff’s participation in America’s National Guard and Reserve Forces.

Without flexible, patriotic leadership at home, the brave men and women pulling double duty as first responders and military service members wouldn’t be able to answer the call of duty.

Nominated by a Local Hero

The nomination came directly from the ranks of the Ridgewood Fire Department. Firefighter Chris Eidschun, who is also an active-duty member of the U.S. Coast Guard, nominated Chief Judge as a testament to the department’s unwavering support of his military commitments.

The award was officially presented by Alvin Star, the New Jersey Chair of the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an office within the Department of Defense.

The accolade serves as a shining example of how local municipalities in New Jersey can champion the citizens who protect both local neighborhoods and the nation’s borders.

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• Tags: Ridgewood NJ, Bergen County News, First Responders, US Coast Guard, National Guard Support, Community Heroes, Military Awards.