Water and fire hydrants are the cornerstone when a firefighter is summoned on a call, so it is fitting Whitehall Township Authority paid tribute to the late Whitehall Township Fire Chief Robert L. Benner by dedicating a fountain in his honor - not just an ordinary fountain, but a bright yellow fire hydrant with water cascading into a blue pool.

Benner died March 30 at the age of 80, having served as the township’s fire chief for 30 years.

Attending the Aug. 15 ceremony dedicating the fountain in Benner’s name were the authority’s members, officers, authority Executive Director Joseph M. McMahon III, Mayor Edward D. Hozza Jr., Whitehall commissioners President Phillips Armstrong and Assistant Fire Chief Ray Danko.

The serene setting at the authority’s grounds on Schadt Avenue was appropriate to Benner’s soft-spoken style.

The grounds on which the fire hydrant fountain sits is more likened to a small plaza. A second hydrant, red in color and having a bronze plaque as its centerpiece, has the wording “The fountain is dedicated in grateful memory of Robert L. Benner, Whitehall Township Fire Chief 1986-2016,” with a fire department insignia at the top.

The perimeter of the pool area features soft beige stones and landscaping. A large tree stands in the background.

In remarks, Doug Bowman, the authority’s retired executive director, spoke of the bond between Benner and the authority and his commitment to having the township safe and keeping the hydrants operational.

Armstrong, a retired Whitehall High School teacher, said Benner and fire department personnel held demonstrations for the students at all age levels during Fire Prevention Week in October and throughout the school year.

Hozza said the fountain dedication for Benner comes as the township is prepared to name Benner’s successor as fire chief.

“Bobby was truly a full-time fire chief. He didn’t work 24 hours a day, but 25 hours,” Hozza said.