Firefighting is a family tradition for the Calvos. Grandfathers, fathers, brothers, cousins and sons have all served as volunteer firefighters, and now, Drew Calvo, 52, is experiencing it with his son, Bobby, 19.

“From the day I found out my wife was pregnant, I dreamed of sharing this experience with my children,” said Drew.  “Watching Bobby get fitted for gear and knowing he will be attending fire school this summer is so exciting for my family.  I can only hope that he gets as much satisfaction out of his experience as I have over the last 34 years.”

Bobby joined Ocean Beach Fire Company in the Toms River Fire Department at the beginning of 2026, but has been involved at a young age and has always enjoyed volunteering at pancake breakfasts with his dad.

Drew is the Chief of Ocean Beach Fire Company, but as a small company, he is involved in many operational aspects. He’s learned to do more with less and find creative ways to recruit.

“Our station is absolutely a staple in our community that people appreciate and support. I find that most importantly, it brings us together,” said Drew. “I am so proud of what this small group of individuals can accomplish and would love to share it with more members of the community.”

Thinking back on his first call with Bobby, Drew says he was sound asleep when it first came in.

“He wakes me up and says, ‘Let’s go!” as he ran out of the house to get to the station,” says Drew.

Fortunately, the call was not very serious, and Drew looks forward to working more closely with Bobby this summer when he’s home from college. Bobby studies pharmaceutical science at the University of Rhode Island and volunteers at Kingston Fire Department during his semesters there.

“Hearing his stories and the growing passion he is developing is just so rewarding for me,” said Drew. “He reminds me a lot of myself when I first started; he is so eager to go to calls and put his training to use.  He is also now talking about making this a career, which makes me so very proud.”

In addition to serving as Chief, Drew is a high school teacher, part-time EMT, per-diem fire and EMS dispatcher, and dad of two kids. He says his wife is very understanding and supportive of all his responsibilities.

“Being part of the Toms River Fire Department is like being part of a huge family,” said Drew. “These men and women were there when my family needed it most during my daughter’s health scare.  They were there to support, help, raise money and anything else we needed.”

Bobby has also seen the bonds and friendships formed through the fire department, and says he is excited to make his own. He’s also learned a lot about how to read the ocean, as well as how to make rescues in it.

“Being part of the Toms River Fire Department allows you to be able to respond to so many different things and learn about so many different skills,” said Bobby.

Toms River Fire Department is seeking more volunteers to join its team. Training and gear are provided. Learn more or sign up at www.trfire.org.