Local Firefighter Receives Statewide Recognition & Scholarship

A young local firefighter is being recognized at the state level. Owego Firefighter Jessica Jones has been awarded the Gerard J. Buckenmeyer Volunteer Scholarship from the Fireman’s Associaton of the State of New York. Jones joined the fire department as soon as she turned old enough at 16 years of age, and just graduated from Owego Free Academy last month. She’ll take her $1500 scholarship with her to Elmira College this Fall. Jones stated that becoming a first responder is kind of a family tradition. She says her family has over 300 years worth of experience in emergency services. Jones said that of all the scholarships she applied for, this was the most meaningful, as it recognized volunteers who she says rarely receive recognition for their hard work.