Retired Beach Patrol Chief Matt Kelm, left, and Longport Commissioner of Public Safety Dan Lawler.
By NANETTE LoBIONDO GALLOWAY
LONGPORT – The mayor and Board of Commissioners Wednesday, March 16 honored Beach Patrol Chief Matt Kelm, who recently retired after 39 years as a member of the Longport Beach Patrol.
Mayor Nicholas Russo read the proclamation claiming March 16 as Matt Kelm Day in Longport to the delight of Kelm’s family members.
Kelm first started as a lifeguard on Longport’s beach in 1983 and rose through the ranks to become chief on April 18, 2018. Under his leadership, the Beach Patrol competed in regional lifeguard championship races, bringing home the trophy five consecutive years in a row.
“This is a special commendation for 39 years,” which was not enough to honor Kelm, Russo said. “This is in special appreciation for 39 years of dedicated service to the residents and visitors of Longport.”
Kelm thanked the borough for the opportunity to serve on the beach.
“I hope I comported myself in a manner that you found acceptable,” he said, noting that everyone he worked with, including employees in public safety, Public Works and Borough Hall were “amazing” in their support.
“The guards I worked with formed so many relationships…all dedicated to one task.”
Kelm said Tom Kresz, who was appointed chief upon his retirement, would do a great job.
He gave special thanks to members of his family who knew “what life was like for us when we were running around when we were little kids.”
“The fact that we turned out the way we did and I was able to rise to this position is a testament to their help…They were there to pick up the bag when something happened. It’s because of you guys that we ended up the way we did,” he said.
Commissioner of Public Safety Dan Lawler said he was Kelm’s roomate “way back when.”
“I never thought Matt would be chief and I would be commissioner,” he said. “Anyone who does anything for 39 years…that’s a long time to be dedicated and stick with something, and we are very happy in Longport for that.”
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