Brenton Prisendorf Appointed Junior Firefighter

Patch Whiz Kid of the Week: Brenton Prisendorf, a junior at New Milford High School and the newest junior member of the New Milford Fire Department

Accomplishment: "Brenton chose to become an explorer two years ago after a very long lineage of firefighters," said his mother, Joanne Prisendorf.  "Once he turned 16, he became a junior firefighter."

Brenton comes from a long line of firefighters--his great-grandfather was a Palisades  Park Volunteer Firefighter for about a decade, his grandfather is currently an active member with more than 50 years of service with the Palisades Park Fire Department.  Brenton's uncle and father were both members of the Palisades Park Fire Department until they moved and started their own families and both are currently exempt firefighters. 

When asked why he wanted to become a junior firefighter, he said "Based on the family history, why wouldn't I?"

Brenton's appointment to the department was made official at the February 28 meeting of the mayor and council.

Councilman Dominic Colucci, the liaison to the fire department made the appointment.

"I would like to nominate him to be a junior fire department member," said Colucci. "I know him personally and he is a great kid, from a great family and I'm honored to have him, speaking as the liaision."

Brenton also hopes to also become EMT certified, which he is currently researching.

Whiz Kid Keys to Awesomeness: In addition to his work with the NMFD, he is active in other extracurricular activities including baseball and football.  Brenton also coached his 10-year-old sister's recreation basketball team this season.