HOMETOWN HERO — Ronnie Butler Jr.
How long have you been a member of HTFD-23 and why did you join?
I joined Harmony Fire Company 2002 as a Junior Member. I left the area in 2011 for my career and became an inactive member. I always stopped by and kept in touch when I visited the area. Then 2017 moved back to Harrison Twp and have been active ever since.
I decided to join HTFD-23 after 9/11. Few of my friends were inspired to join the military but I wanted to serve in a different way. I had a few friends that were in HTFD-23 at the time and I decided to ask and show up on a Tuesday night. The rest is history.
Do you have a family? If Yes, please tell us about your wife/kids.
I am a 4th generation Harrison Township Resident, my family has lived in Harrison Township since the early 1930s. Katie is my awesome wife of 7 years, we are high school sweethearts and alumni of Clearview. We have a talkative and energetic 3 year old son named Ronnie, who thinks fire trucks and tractors are cool and I have to agree.
What is the best part about being part of HTFD-23?
Obviously being a firefighter. A close second is the brotherhood and camaraderie that you receive when you join. Many of my fellow brothers and sisters here at HTFD and in the fire service, I would have never met unless I joined HTFD. We really do come from all walks of life and we would have never crossed paths. If I never joined I would have missed out on meeting some awesome people and even better friends.
What do you do when you’re not fighting fires?
I am an IT Systems Architect for a very large consulting firm by day. When I am not working or with HTFD-23 I am an adrenaline junkie. Cars, Trucks, Motorcycles, ATVs/Dirtbikes, anything with an engine will always peak my interest. I have more hobbies than time. Also I love spending time with my friends and family.
Who would you say is the most influential person in your life and why?
My Father is the most influential person in my life and is someone I have always looked up to. I have learned a lot from him over the years and still do every day. His advice and actions have and will always leave an impact on me.
What is your favorite movie and why?
Too many to choose from but off the top of my head – Good Will Hunting
There is a movie about HTFD-23 – what actor plays you?
Easy one – Denis Leary
If you had 3 magic beans – what would you wish for?
- To have a happy and fulfilling life
- To make a positive impact in the world
- Early Retirement in my late 30s
