To continue the next generation of volunteer firefighters at Brookhaven Fire Company, Rob Montella Jr. passed down his love of the fire service to his son, Robert “RW” Montella. Meanwhile, when Steve Davish’s son Stephen decided he wanted to join the fire service at 14, Steve saw it as an opportunity to bond and do it together.
Rob Jr. & Robert “RW” Montella
Firefighting is a family affair for the Montella family. Rob Montella Jr., 58, has been going to the firehouse with his dad since he was 6 years old. He was able to follow in his father’s footsteps, and now his son, Robert “RW” Montella, has been carrying on that tradition since 2006.
“Volunteering with my son is really special,” said Rob. “We share a special bond as firefighters together and I have loved seeing him develop a passion for firefighting and become an officer.”
RW, 31, joined when he was 14 years old as a junior firefighter, and now serves as Captain.
“I couldn’t wait to join. I had been around it my entire life,” said RW, who grew up at the firehouse with his grandfather, uncle and cousin too.
Rob also started as a junior firefighter and has served many roles, including Chief for the past 22 years.
“I have always looked up to my dad. His dedication is unmatched and he is a great leader,” said RW.
As RW advances in roles at Brookhaven Fire Company, the father-son pair enjoy bouncing ideas off each other.
“I enjoy planning out the training sessions with RW and getting his thoughts on training,” said Rob.
Similarly, RW says, “As I further my career, we can compare scenarios and teach each other.”
The Montellas love learning firefighting skills and evolving with the changes that come along in the industry. Training and gear are provided to all Brookhaven volunteers, and there are opportunities for everyone.
“Apply, visit our station and meet our firefighter family and team,” encouraged Rob. “Possibly join with your son or daughter and learn together. Become a part of serving your community and experience the most rewarding job in the world. You may find friendships that will last a lifetime.”
Steve & Stephen Davish
Stephen Davish, 18, always wanted to be a firefighter growing up and also wanted to give back to his community. He joined Brookhaven Fire Company at 14 years old in July 2020 and his dad, Steve, decided to join with him.
“It’s awesome volunteering with my dad because I get to do the job I love to do with him,” said Stephen. “One thing I enjoy about volunteering with him is going on calls and training together.”
One of their favorite training sessions together was learning search and rescue training in a shed over the winter. They practiced forcing open doors and how to search for victims in zero visibility. Other valuable skills are CPR and first aid, fire suppression and vehicle rescue training.
“I enjoy volunteering with my son because it’s something we are both passionate about and can do together,” said Steve. “Stephen is passionate about the fire service and has been since he was a little boy.”
Steve currently serves as a firefighter and relief association treasurer.
“My dad dedicates his time day in and day out to help people,” said Stephen, who is a probationary firefighter in training. “He is always willing to help out in any way he can.”
Steve and Stephen encourage others to volunteer and give the fire service a try. No prior experience is required. All volunteers train at the fire company together on Tuesday nights.
“It is worth the experience and it is the best job in the world,” said Stephen.
“Brookhaven is like a family,” added Steve. “You will train with some of the best in the fire service.”
To learn more about volunteering at Brookhaven Fire Company or express interest in joining, visit www.JoinBrookhavenFire.org.