Governor Josh Shapiro honored first responders who died in the line of duty at the 2025 Keystone First Responder Award ceremony Monday.
Among those honored was Assistant Fire Chief Edward โChipโ Chidester of the Harford Volunteer Fire Company.
Chidester was a 40-year veteran of the Harford Volunteer Fire Company, who died after complications from injuries sustained while fighting a large brush fire in Lenox Township.
The Keystone First Responder Award recognizes first responders who have suffered fatal or career-ending injuries while serving their communities, honoring their bravery, sacrifice, and commitment to public safety.
โPennsylvanians who put on the uniform and run towards danger to keep our communities safe represent the very best of our Commonwealth,โ said Governor Shapiro. โWe owe these heroes and their families a debt of gratitude that can never truly be repaid โ but today we honor their sacrifice, remember their courage, and reaffirm our commitment to always stand with Pennsylvaniaโs first responders, law enforcement officers, and their loved ones.”
