| On Saturday, May 12th, the Twin Valley Fire Department had its first banquet since the official merger of the two companies. The event was held in the Springfield Room at the East Station (Elverson), and began with a social hour from 5:30 to 6:30pm. Dinner was then served by Wegman's Catering, featuring the TVFD favorite, chicken cordon bleu and roast beef.
Following a hearty meal, State Fire Commissioner Edward Mann kicked off the first of several speeches of the evening. Commissioner Mann proudly awarded the department with a certificate, recognizing the department's involvement in the "State Participating Department Certification Program". This program is offered to fire companies as a way to be recognized for meeting National Professional Qualification Standards at various training levels as certified firefighters. Each certification level consisted of hundreds of hours of training, ending with both written and hands-on practical testing. Twin Valley Fire Department is proud to have 75% of our members Nationally Certified to a minimum of the Fire I level. Commissioner Mann also presented the department with reflective decals that will be placed on the apparatus, signifying our 75% participation.
Pennsylvania State Congressman Tim Hennessy then addressed the members and guests, and reflected back a few years to when he experienced first hand, the rescue efforts of the department. Mr. Hennessy was involved in a rollover accident on Route 82, and had to be extricated from his vehicle. He stated that the general public does not appreciate the level of training and professionalism that volunteer men and women possess, until their help is needed.
Fire Chief Chris Witkowski wrapped up the evening's speeches by presenting several members with the "Gold Pin Lifesaving Award" on behalf of Holmatro President William Swayne. The department was involved in an "unusual" extrication of a subject that was trapped underneath an overturned vehicle in December (www.tvfd69.com/index.cfm?fs=news.newsView&News_ID=36). Chief Witkowski also took a few moments to thank the many behind the scene faces that have been involved in the merger, including the significant others and family members. Without the help and support of all these individuals, Twin Valley Fire Department would not be what it is today and will be in the future.
The evening ended with entertainment provided by two comedians and a DJ.
**Thanks to all the local businesses for door prize donations, and Berks Tanker 70 (Grill) and Engine 47-2 (Lionville) for covering the district. |
