KREITZER, Clarence
On September 24, 2001 a deadly and devistating F3 tornado hit Maryland, cutting a 17.5 mile path of destruction through Prince George's County, starting with the University of Maryland,College Park. Firefighter Clarence "Cuz" Kreitzer was on the scene of the devistation for many hours operating a specialized floodlight unit out of Company 19. After returning to the station, Firefighter Kreitzer told others that he was not feeling well and headed for home. A short distance from the station, Firefighter Kreitzer suffered a fatal heart attack. All resuscitation attempts were unsuccessful. Clarence Kreitzer joined the Bowie Volunteer Fire Department as a Junior Member in 1937 at the age of 14 and started training and riding equipment at age 16. In 1941, at age 18 & during WWII, he became a pump operator/driver, when more senior members left to join the Armed Forces. In 1944, he served in the European Theatre with the United States Army, 320th Infantry, 35th Division, until he was honorably discharged in 1946. After the war, Clarence returned to the Bowie VFD where he continued to serve as an active volunteer firefighter right up until the time of his death, having held many offices and having earned his Life Member status. Firefighter Clarence "Cuz" Kreitzer was 78 years old and had served for 64 years.
Listing Details
House
Bowie Volunteer Fire Department
Age
78
Years of Service
64
County
PRINCE GEORGE
