On May 31st, 2026, was the 15th anniversary of the passing and line of duty death of Assistant Chief Thomas Shields. The Budd Lake Fire Department was honored to be a part of the ceremony Ladder 58 along with Roxbury Tower 15 proudly flew the flag over the street entrance. Tom Shields was a dedicated firefighter who tragically lost his life on May 31, 2011, while serving as the 2nd Assistant Chief of the Flanders Fire Company #1 and Rescue Squad. His journey in emergency services began in 1986 at the West Paterson Fire Department, where he rose to the rank of 2nd Lieutenant. In 2005, he joined the Flanders Fire Company, quickly advancing to his role as Assistant Chief. In his honor, a street sign dedication was held at the corner of Clover Hill Drive and Brewster Place, where Tom and his family resided, with the program starting at 2:30 pm and the sign reveal taking place precisely at 2:49 pm, the time of his passing. It was a heartfelt tribute to recognize Tom’s commitment and service to the residents of Mount Olive Township.
