05/21/2026
Over the past week, the Secaucus Fire Department has had the honor of recognizing and celebrating the life and legacy of Past Chief Bryan Schoch of Washington Hook & Ladder Co. #1.
Chief Schoch dedicated 23 years of service to the Secaucus Fire Department, rising through the ranks to serve as Chief of Department from 2015-2016. He proudly followed in the footsteps of his grandfather, former Washington Hook & Ladder Captain Charles A. “Pep” Schoch.
In addition to his service in Secaucus, Chief Schoch served as a Battalion Chief with the Jersey City Fire Department and as an instructor at the Sussex County Fire Academy, where he mentored and trained countless firefighters throughout his career.
Chief Schoch’s loss has been deeply felt throughout the fire service community. While his passing came far too soon, we find comfort knowing his watch continues from above.
Even in passing, his commitment to helping others continues through the gift of organ donation through the NJ Sharing Network.
His legacy will forever live on through the firefighters he trained, the departments he served, and the countless lives he touched.
In recognition of his years of dedicated service, Washington Hook & Ladder has officially retired Badge Number 25 in his honor.
The Secaucus Fire Department extends its sincere gratitude to the Schoch family for allowing us to honor our brother. We would also like to thank Secaucus Chief of Department Lawrence Marciano, Jersey City Battalion Chief Richard D. Gorman, the Secaucus Police Department, our mutual aid partners (specifically Rutherford E2, Carlstadt E3, North Arlington L3, and Lyndhurst R1), the Jersey City Gong Club, and everyone who stood beside us this past week to honor Chief Schoch.
Rest easy, Chief. Your service, leadership, and brotherhood will never be forgotten. Thank you for everything 🙏
📸: Secaucus R1 FF. Arli
