Vincentown, N.J. — July 19 — Beverly Rathjen was honored by Hampton Lakes Volunteer Fire Company for her 55 years of service. Rathjen became one of the first female firefighters in Burlington County when she joined the organization in 1971. Later, she trained at a fire academy and progressed thru a number of leadership positions, such as assistant chief and chief driver.

Rathjen became the first female fire chief in New Jersey when she was appointed fire chief in 1982. She held the position of company president for 13 years and continued to be involved with the department's fire police team. Her spouse, kids, grandkids, and in-laws all served as members and officers of Hampton Lakes, carrying on the family legacy.