Scotch Plains Rescue Squad Celebrates 77 Years, Installation of Officers

The Scotch Plains Rescue Squad recently held its annual Installation of Officers Dinner at Snuffy’s Pantagis Restaurant. Mayor Kevin Glover, Councilman Michael “Mickey” Marcus, Councilman William “Bo” Vastine, Councilman Llewellyn Jones as well as other dignitaries and guests extended their gratitude for the service provided by the squad.

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, Robert Foerster; Secretary, Joanne Gurske; Treasurer, Harold Hill; Chaplain, Robert Gurske; Captain, Daniel Sullivan; First Lieutenant, Carolyn Di Donato; Second Lieutenant, Joseph Colon. Serving as Delegates are Daniel Sullivan, Joan Lozowski and Patty Buckridee. Serving as Alternate Delegates are Deborah Loh-Speth, Karolyn Buckridee and Arnold Lidsky. Trustees are Susan Baldani, Brian Cassidy, and Robert Speth. 

Service awards were presented to Brian Cassidy for 40 years of service; Robert Gurske and Justine Kennedy for 25 years; William McLaughlin for 20 years; Melissa Padulski for 10 years; Lansing Booth, Elizabeth Buckridee, Hershita Kaushik, Scott Leyden, Marissa Minnicino and Joseph Tufaro for 5 years. 

The Rescue Squad answered 1,075 calls for 2013 and provided mutual aid 34 times to the six surrounding communities.

The squad welcomes new members as well as those interested in contributing time and talent to support the organization. Individuals can apply for membership at eighteen years of age or serve as a cadet at age sixteen. Those ages 14 or older can serve on the Scotch Plains Rescue Squad Auxiliary. For more information about becoming a Scotch Plains EMT, auxiliary member, volunteer, or to make a donation, contact scotchplainsrescuesquad@gmail.com or call (908) 322-2103 any week night between 6 p.m. and 11 p.m. 

The rescue squad also has many services available for those in the community with need. Hospital equipment, such as wheelchairs, canes and crutches are available for use, free of charge. The rescue squad relies on ongoing community support to fulfill their motto, "Neighbors Helping Neighbors. We Work For Pride Not Pay."