Fanwood and Scotch Plains police, fire and rescue squad responders were recognized tonight (4/25) at the annual Shield Awards presented by the Knights of Columbus, Father John Nelligan Council, at St. Bartholomew the Apostle Church in Scotch Plains. This event is special because it brings together all police and volunteer first responders from both towns for recognition of their service to our communities.
Award recipients:
Fanwood:
- Officer Elliot Bernard, Fanwood PD, for his service in Puerto Rico with a NJ State Police Task Force that helped recovery efforts last fall after Hurricane Maria. Presented by Chief Richard Trigo.
- EMT Nicholas Routé, Fanwood Rescue Squad, for dedication and outstanding volunteer service to his community. Presented by squad President Ed Winsor. Nick’s father Joe is a firefighter with the Fanwood Fire Department and was present for the fire award.
- The Fanwood Fire Department, presented as a group award by Assistant Chief Steve Szanto, who highlighted the ongoing partnership between the Fanwood and Scotch Plains Fire Departments.
Scotch Plains:
- Det. Brad Belford, Scotch Plains, PD, for a warrant search that resulted in the confiscation of a large amount of illegal drugs and a gun. Presented by Chief Ted Conley.
- EMT Jerry Handsman, Deputy Chief of Scotch Plains Rescue Squad, for his years of dedicated volunteer service. Presented by Chief Carolyn Sorge.
- Firefighter Robert Villegas, Scotch Plains FD, for dedicated volunteer service to his community as both a firefighter and an EMT. Presented by Battalion Chief Joe Rodrigues.
The awards event was emceed by Seth McQuillan, Grand Knight. To view all of the pictures from the awards ceremony, visit our Facebook page at facebook.com/fanwoodnewjersey Congratulations to all recipients and thanks for your service.
