Florham Park Firefighting and World War II Vet Honored at Citi Field

Bob Newhouse, a World War II veteran and member of the Florham Park Fire Department for 68 years, was honored on August 27, 2022 by Major League Baseball’s New York Mets.

Newhouse was the Veteran Honoree when the Mets hosted the Colorado Rockies, who they defeated, 3- 0.

“We are very proud of his service and have so much respect for all those who serve and who have served,” says Rebecca Newhouse Trachsel, who along with her husband, former Mets pitcher Steve Trachsel, nominated her dad for the honor. “We think they all deserve to be recognized.” 

“My daughter and son-in-law told me that they nominated me. I guess they thought it was fitting for me to be honored at ‘Old Timers’ Day," says a happy Bob Newhouse.

In fact, the timing was indeed just right. “This was a very special event for all of us,” Newhouse’s daughter says. “My husband was invited by the Mets to attend ‘Old Timers’ Day.’ It was made even more special when the Mets chose to honor my dad as the veteran of that game. So many of our friends and family were able to be at the game to enjoy both celebrations. We thank the New York Mets for such a special event and taking great care of all of us.”

Her dad echoes her words. “The Mets took very good care of us. A lot of my family members were in attendance. My wife, two daughters and sons-in-law, my son and daughter-in-law, and six of my grandchildren.”

That evening, Newhouse was led under the lights onto beautiful Citi Field in Queens and was presented by Mets pitcher, Chris Bassitt, with a flag that was flown over the stadium, as well as medal for his service.

Newhouse has been a volunteer fireman with the Florham Park Fire Department for almost 70 years. During that time, he has served as President of the Florham Park Fire Department Association and secretary for the Exempt Association, and is a member of the Florham Park Fireman’s Relief Committee. He also served in the United States Army for three years during World War II, spending 14 months in the United States and 14 months in Europe, where he fought in the Battle of the Bulge. He was employed as a wireman who laid hardwire for telephones.

Newhouse has been a baseball fan for many years, and shows no partiality – he roots for both the Mets and Yankees. His favorite players are the legendary, great Mets pitcher, Tom Seaver, and Yankee third baseman, Bobby Brown. When asked what is most important to him now, he responds, “My faith and my family.”

Rebecca Newhouse Trachsel again expresses her gratitude to the New York Mets. “Thank you for recognizing my dad yet again. He’s a very special person to our family, our community, and this country.”