The Summit Volunteer First Aid Squad held its annual dinner recently and recognized several members for outstanding service. The dinner was held at the Berkeley Plaza in Berkeley Heights.

Special recognition was given to those squad members that went "above and beyond" the call of duty following the 9/11 attacks. From 9/11 through 9/14, The Summit Squad sent several ambulance crews into New York City, 3 of which responded to the World Trade Center site. Members who responded to New York were awarded a special citation. They included Liz Cullen, Mike D'Ecclessis, Robin Hodgkins, Claudia Kilby, Cameron Linen, Andy Luciani, Veronika Luciani, Kari Phair, Joel Pirrone, Pete Riley, Clarysel Rivas, Lisseth Rodriguez, John Ross, Poly Seifert, Phil Sherrer, Karen Stenstrom, John Staunton, Rich Ryden, and Linda Wolf.

The Squad's Presidential Award, presented annually to the member that most exemplifies the spirit of and dedication to the squad and community, was awarded to Day Lieutenant Jack Lyness. According to John Staunton, Squad President, "Jack has not only been a great Day Lieutenant but an enthusiastic leader as well. He has volunteered his time whenever needed and at one time or another has worked on every weekday shift." The President also awarded the "Star of Life" to 6 members who showed outstanding commitment during 2001. They were Squad Captain Beverly Brown, Liz Cullen, Mike D'Ecclessis, Kate Getzendanner, Ken Herr, and Michael Hunter.

Also during the dinner, Honorary Membership was bestowed upon Lucy Thompson, the wife of Ian Thompson, and their 2 daughters, Ella and Rachel. Ian, a long time squad member and Summit resident, was a victim of the World Trade Center attack. The Thompsons were also given a quilt designed and sewn by squad members. Many members contributed by creating a fabric square that was included on the quilt.

Guests at the dinner included Summit Councilwoman Joyce Margie, Fire Chief Chris Cotter, NJ State First Aid Council Vice President Howard Meyer, and several officers from surrounding first aid squads.

In an mutual support arrangement with the Chatham Emergency Squad, Chatham provided a crew to cover Summit the night of the dinner, and the Summit squad reciprocated during Chatham's annual dinner.

The Summit First Aid Squad is launching a new membership campaign for 2002. Their call to "Answer The Call" follows on the appeal for volunteerism from President Bush. The Squad is always looking for new volunteers and provides all needed training and equipment. For information, please call 908-277-9479, or visit them on the Internet at www.summitems.org.