Scotch Plains Rescue Squad Celebrates 76 Years of Volunteer Service

The following information was provided by the Scotch Plains Rescue Squad.

The Scotch Plains Rescue Squad recently held its annual Installation of Officers Dinner at Snuffy’s Pantagis Restaurant. Many local public figures andguests were present to extend their gratitude for the service provided by the Squad.

Dignitaries included the newly elected Mayor Kevin Glover and Deputy Mayor Colleen Gialanella as well as Township Manager Henry Underhill; Police Chief Brian Mahoney and Fire Chief Jonathan Ellis.

Robert Gurske, Chaplain for the Rescue Squad conducted a memorial service for the deceased members who served the Scotch Plains Rescue Squad for many years. Following the service, Mayor Glover administered the oath of office to: President, Edward Fiedler; First Vice President, Antonio Robertiello; Second Vice President, Patricia Buckridee; Secretary, Joanne Gurske; Treasurer, HaroldHill; Chaplain, Robert Gurske; Captain, Daniel Sullivan; First Lieutenant, Joseph Colon; SecondLieutenant, Carolyn Di Donato. Rescue Squad Delegates include Daniel Sullivan, Deborah Speth andJames Baxter. Alternate Delegates are Robert Foester, Christopher Fuentes and April Gano. Serving as Trustees are Brian Cassidy, Robert Speth and Sue Baldani.

Service awards were presented to Harold Hill for 55 years of volunteer service; Deborah Speth for 30years; Carolyn Di Donato for 25 years; Steven Wheeler and Robert Foester for 20 years; Aprilnicole Gano for 10 years; Karolyn Buckridee, Christopher Fuentes, Chang Yaramothu, Antonio Robertiello,Gregory Cassidy and Frank Mellana for 5 years.

The Rescue Squad answered 1200 calls in 2012 and rendered mutual aid 73 times to six surroundingcommunities.

These devoted volunteers leave their homes, day and night, to be of service to the community. During Superstorm Sandy, many Rescue Squad volunteers worked tirelessly with no power to the Squad building, rendering aid to our town.

The Squad welcomes new members as well as those interested in contributing time and talent tosupport the organization. Individuals can apply for membership at eighteen years of age or serve as a cadet at age sixteen. Those ages fourteen or older can serve on the Scotch Plains Rescue Squad Auxiliary. For more information about becoming a Scotch Plains EMT, auxiliary member, volunteer, orto make a donation, contact scotchplainsrescuesquad@gmail.com or call (908) 322-2103 any weeknight between 6:00p.m. and 11:00p.m.

The Rescue Squad has many services available for those in the community with need. Hospitalequipment, such as wheelchairs, canes and crutches are available for use, free of charge. The ScotchPlains Rescue Squad relies on ongoing community support. These contributions enable the Squad tofulfill their motto, Neighbors Helping Neighbors. We Work For Pride Not Pay. The Squad looks forwardto continued growth with the township of Scotch Plains as they faithfully serve those who call for help.