On Friday, April 19, 2024, the Prince Frederick Volunteer Fire Department hosted a momentous occasion as the Calvert County Volunteer Fire, Rescue & EMS Association Installation of Officers and Awards Banquet unfolded. It was a night of honor, recognition, and celebration as the Southern Maryland Volunteer Fireman's Association Past President, Randy Smith, proudly swore in the leadership team. President J.W. “Billy” Freesland, III, Vice President Patrick Hassler, Secretary Lori Lodge, Treasurer Charlie Hanko, Chaplain Larry Patin, and Assistant Chaplain Charlie Hanko were officially instated to lead the association into the future.

Following a delightful dinner, the association wasted no time in acknowledging the outstanding contributions of its volunteers. Over 30 dedicated individuals were presented with well-deserved awards, highlighting their commitment to serving the community of Calvert County.

Congratulations to the Award Winners

CTA Cadet Award Winners:
Senior Cadet of the Year: Travis Winston (Co.6)
Senior Academic Award: Nicholas Alonso (Co. 2)
Junior Cadet of the Year: Bailey Wells (Co. 2)
Junior Academic Award: Sophia Hale (Co. 6)
SkillsUSA Achievement Award: Cody Davenport (Co. 2)

Special Recognitions:
Larry Cox Award – Volunteer of the Year: Clinton Cox (Co. 6)
Dowell-Showalter Award – EMS Person of the Year: Kaden Richardson (Co. 6)
President’s Award/Administrator of the Year: Charlie Hanko (Co. 6)
50+ Years of Service: J.W. “Billy” Freesland, III (Co. 1) and John Pardoe (Co.3)

Hall of Fame Inductees:
Jonathan Dalrymple, Sr. (Co.3)
Norman Hawkins (Posthumously, Co.6)
Mike Clark, Jr. (Co.6)

In addition to individual accolades, the J.W. Freesland III Award was presented to a group of individuals for their remarkable response during a water rescue operation in January 2023. The swift actions of the following team members ensured the positive outcome:

Squad 3 – Brian Bowen, Larry Garnett, Kolby Nero, Lochlan Weems
Ambulance 239 – Dale Adams, Steven Elliott
PA 237 – Taylor Large, Joseph Watson
Utility 3/Zodiac – Colton Marek, Jacob Scott, Thomas Delehanty
Boat 3 – Chris Franklin, Thomas Moore, Chief Jonathan Dalrymple, Ryonn Taylor
Brush 3 – Timothy Young, Angela Young
EMS 20 – Joe Ford, Sr., CALS – Chief Chris Shannon

A Heartfelt Thank You
We extend our sincerest congratulations to all the award winners and Hall of Fame inductees. Your unwavering dedication and selfless service embody the spirit of community and exemplify the noble values of the firefighting and EMS profession. We are immensely grateful for your tireless commitment to protecting the citizens of Calvert County, and we look forward to witnessing your continued contributions in the future.