Non-Profit Internet Source for News, Events, History, & Culture of Northern Frederick & Carroll County Md./Southern Adams County Pa.

 

Fire company honors volunteers

Chris Patterson

Emmitsburg's Vigilant Hose Fire Company celebrated its 121st anniversary Saturday with a banquet recognizing the many men and women who volunteer their time to protect the community. Numerous awards were presented during the dinner event held at Mother Seton School.

The Chief's Award, selected by Chief Robert Rosensteel Jr., was presented to Ann Messner and Karyn Myers.

Fire company Public Information Officer Wayne Powell said the two women took the lead in supporting the chief. Messner and Myers worked for five months to plan for delivery of primary emergency medical services and to identify career staffing needs.

They also developed the company's written EMS protocols, delivered training for all personnel, and implemented Standard Operating Procedures for infection control, among other important initiatives.

The Member of the Year award went to Vance Click, who was rated top in his participation in classes, administrative duties, operational responses and formal training. Powell said Click is always willing to help and is great for company morale.

President Frank Rauschenberg selected Steven M. Hollinger for the annual President's award for many reasons. Hollinger comes from a fire service family. He has made significant contributions to the company's financial management, its relationship with county and state governmental agencies, corporate requirements and audits. He also acted as the liaison to local lenders, worked on billing, services issues, record keeping, and was the "best role model" for members learning operations and administrative duties, Powell said.

A significant honor at every annual banquet is the naming of members to be inducted into the Hall of Fame, the company's highest award. This year two members were inducted. Hollinger was inducted for his many years of "extraordinary service," Powell said.

Edward Hoke Rowe was inducted posthumously. He was named president of the company in 1884 and was considered a community-minded person who was instrumental in getting the company started.

Read other articles on the Vigilant Hose Company