Hutchinson's storied career focus of WQED documentary

J. Edward Hutchinson, acknowledged as having likely been the longest-serving active volunteer fire chief in Pennsylvania — perhaps in the country — will be recognized this month in a WQED documentary salute to volunteerism.

“Hutch,” as he's popularly known, turned 95 in November, shortly after announcing he would not seek a 22nd term as the Greensburg department's chief.

He had held the office since 1953.

“Volunteers: A Call to Serve,” focuses on three regional volunteers who give their time in different ways.

WQED producer Paul Ruggieri says the 30-minute film originally began as a look at volunteer firefighters. As he realized how time-consuming it would be, he moved to the concept of three extraordinary volunteers.

After a local firefighter told him about Hutchinson's history, Ruggieri says, he became “intrigued.” Ruggieri conducted two interviews with Hutchinson over the summer and accompanied him on a fire call.

Hutchinson's segment, Ruggieri says, “tells his story from the very beginning.”

It touches on his service as a Marine gunnery sergeant during World War II, as well as his many contributions to his community.

He founded one of the state's first dive-rescue teams and the local bloodhound team, and helped to start the Mutual Aid Ambulance Service.

Hutchinson led fundraising efforts to build the city's Aerobic Center fitness facility and indoor pool. And he helped to establish the Five Star Trail, an extensive walking and biking trail stretching from Greensburg to Youngwood.

Greensburg Volunteer Fire Department Museum Inc., footage shows Hutchinson working on a bucket brigade as a boy.

“One thing we have to commend Hutch on, he sent us to get the best schooling,” says Tony Todaro, department life member and museum guide.

The museum houses antique fire equipment and gear, along with a collection of wooden toy fire trucks, many hand-crafted by retired Greensburg firefighters. Director Bill Rudolph calls the collection “quite spectacular.”

The museum, at the rear of 416 S. Main St., is featured in the film. It's open to the public by appointment.

Asked if Hutchinson, known for his occasionally salty language, required much editing, Ruggieri laughs

“I said, ‘Hutch, you have to be on your best behavior,' ” he says.

“He's a fascinating individual. They don't make them like Hutch any more. I have tremendous respect for him. He's really done a lot for the city of Greensburg,” Ruggieri says.

The film also highlights the contributions of former Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Charlie Batch, who combines athletics and academics in a successful program for at-risk youth, and Linda Lafferty, organizer of Wilkinsburg's Blessings in a Backpack program to provide food for students who might not have a meal waiting at home.

“We have some great people in this region,” Ruggieri says.

Mary Pickels is a Tribune-Review staff writer. Reach her at 724-836-5401 or mpickels@tribweb.com.