Pictured from L to R

(Brother Travis White; Brother Barry Hixson (Business Manager); Brother Bret Vanderpool; Brother Gary Hummel (Shop Steward)

June 29, 2022

Local 459 proudly presented the IBEW Lifesaving Award to Brothers Bret Vanderpool and Travis White. These two Journeyman Linemen employed at Penelec/First Energy in Towanda Pennsylvania, along with former Local 459 member Gene Rockwell were involved in a routine line repair when they noticed smoke coming from a nearby residence. They did not hesitate and sprang into action as they grabbed a ladder and saved two residents from their burning home. Brother Vanderpool climbed in the house and fought smoke and flames to bring an elderly fire victim to the window and carried her down the ladder. This selfless act of bravery serves as an inspiration to all in the IBEW and we at Local 459 could not be prouder of our Union Brothers’ actions on that day. 

Barry Hixson,

Business Manager/Financial Secretary