Captain Mortica M. Clark Retires After 30 Years as City Fireman
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Oldest Member of Department in Point of Service Honored by Fellow Workers, Officers and School Children in Exercises at Station House
Camden's oldest fire captain in point of service retired yesterday after more than 30 years of answering alarms.
He is Captain Mortica M. Clark, who was honored at a gathering of fellow firemen and officers.
The exercises, which included the presentation of a fishing rod and reel, a ring, smoking utensils and flowers, took place at his home company's headquarters, Ninth and Morgan streets. The presentations were made by Fire Chief John H. Lennox.
The gifts were from his staff, other captains, the Three-fifteen Association, local school children and his family. Captain Clark expects to pass considerable of his time fishing and boating near his home at Palermo.
"He is one of the best firemen and one of the best leaders I have known," was Safety Director Mary W. Kobus' tribute to him.
Captain Clark served as senior captain for 21 years and during his years with the department was never late for duty. He never reported any of his men for any violation of the rules. Many times he was cited for heroic acts.
During the State Street church fire he dragged Chief Peter N. [sic] Carter from the flaming building as the roof collapsed. He rescued four children from the burning Mary J. Ball Home and worked 49 consecutive hours during the Hollingshed fire last July. He was responsible also for efficient work at the Kaighn avenue ferry blaze and the fire at the Graves Varnish works, Twelfth and Federal streets.
In addition to his wife, Emma, Captain Clark's family includes four children, Mrs. Florence Kolman, Catherine, George and Archie.