HOMETOWN HERO — JD Schumacher
How long have you been a member of HTFD-23 and why did you join?
I have been a member of HTFC for just over 5 years now. I wanted to be apart of something bigger than myself. Being able to volunteer in my town gives me the awesome feeling of knowing I am helping out my fellow neighbors.
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 recently engaged to my fiancé Sara Nussbaum. My parents John and Kathlyn moved to Mullica Hill back in 1994. They fell in love with the town and built our family home off of high street. My sister Julia and I have been here our entire life.
What is the best part about being part of HTFD-23?
The best part of joining the fire department is the relationships you make with one another. Everyone becomes a 2nd family at the firehouse. We spend so much time training and on calls we all become very close. No matter what you need someone will jump in to help or knows someone who can help even more. The tailboard talks in the station where you lose track of time because you are so deep into conversation happens more often than not.
What do you do when you’re not fighting fires?
When I am not at the firehouse you can find me on the pitch. I ref Rugby on the weekends and have been involved with the sport since 2011. I played in high school and college. After college I wanted to stay involved but wanted to help the Rugby community by being a ref. During the work week you can find me at Amazon as a Safety Specialist. My building is located right around the corner in West Deptford!
Who would you say is the most influential person in your life and why?
My dad has been a huge part in my upbringing. He has always been there for me no matter what is going on. From standing in the rain while watching me play soccer or rugby. To the long nights of studying and motivation to keep pushing and never give up. His passion for me gave me the passion to help others.
What is your favorite movie and why?
“The Longest Yard” is an overall easy movie to watch over and over again.
There is a movie about HTFD-23 – what actor plays you?
That would be one heck of a movie but I think Adam Sandler. Trust me I am the funniest guy at the firehouse.
If you had 3 magic beans – what would you wish for?
- High Speed Internet no matter where I am
- The power to fly
- A coffee maker that makes the perfect cup every time
