Executive Officers
Jon P. Roth
President
Jon Roth joined the Brookside Engine Company as a junior member in 1983. Over the years, “JR” as he is fondly referred to; has risen through the executive ranks and has held every position with the exception of treasurer and also has the distinction of being our longest serving president; holding the position for three terms lasting a total of 10 years! JR also is the chairperson of our membership committee which helps onboard new members and get them acquainted with the company. Outside of the firehouse, JR is employed by the County of Morris in the communications division as a supervisor where he has been working for over 33 years.
Peter J. Gordon
Vice President
Peter Gordon joined the Brookside Engine Company in 2020. He had recently moved into town from Haverstraw, New York where he served with the General Warren Emergency Company #2 of the Haverstraw Fire Department for many years. His primary responsibility is to track membership participation and also keep a record of the many hours that our members out in to serve the community. Outside of the BEC#1, Mr. Gordon is employed by the County Of Morris.
Warren J. Gisser
Treasurer
Treasurer Gisser came to Brookside in 2013 from the Randolph Township Fire Department Mount Freedom Fire Company #3 where he had served as Battalion Chief. A frequent top responder and the backbone of our nighttime crew. Warren has stepped back into an Executive role assuming the position of Treasurer. He is the recipient of the 2017 Chief’s Award for his above and beyond contributions to our fire company
Samuel K. Tolley
Recording Secretary
Sam Tolley has been a member of the Brookside Engine Company #1 for over 40 years. First joining in 1980; Mr. Tolley has risen through both the executive and line officer ranks holding the position of Chief from 2005-2006 and President from 1995-1999 and again from 2008-2009. Ex Chief Tolley has also served as Vice President, and Financial Secretary in addition to the other line officer positions. In addition, Sam has chaired numerous committees and has contributed to many projects and activities the fire company has put together over the years. His wife Diane is also the President of our Ladies Auxiliary. Outside of the Fire Company, Ex Chief Tolley works as a Vice President at a banking company.
Stanley N. Witczack
Financial Secretary
Michael J. Drury
Department Chaplin
Father Michael Drury, known as Father Mike by our members, has been the chaplain of the Brookside Engine Company #1 since 1989. The Chaplain of the Fire and EMS is one of the most vital positions that a department can have. The Chaplain’s role is to have the pulse of the department and its personnel. As the world becomes more complex, facing the problems of life becomes dramatically more difficult. The truth is, that emergency service personnel do sustain a tremendous amount of stress because of what they do ‑ more so than any other profession, and although we are a volunteer fire company, we do the same job as the professionals. Father Mike makes himself available to our members for emotional guidance and support 24/7. Ordained a priest in 1974, Father Mike recently retired. He served as Pastor of St. Luke’s Church in Long Valley, NJ for close to 25 years.