Somers Point salutes fire company and auxiliary members at meeting
SOMERS POINT — City Council honored multiple members of the city’s all-volunteer firefighting force and its auxiliary May 12.
“The ladies and gentlemen that are being honored tonight for their service, from 60 years all the way down to 10 years, is a significant dedication to the city and I wanted to let you know that we certainly appreciate your service and what you do for the city of Somers Point,” Councilman Howard Dill said.
“Rest assured that everyone up here, we all appreciate. Everyone in this room and in this city appreciates everything that you do,” Mayor Jack Glasser said.
Fred Cottrell Sr., a lifelong resident of the city, was honored for serving 60 years with Somers Point Fire Company. Cottrell has served as chief and president and continues to respond to calls.
“Sixty years is a long time to be committed to anything, let alone a volunteer organization like a fire department. I was going to make a joke about him being 8 or 10 years old when he joined — well, I think I just said it — so I’ve known Fred and his wife going on 60 years and they truly are dedicated and people who really care about the city of Somers Point. Fred, I just want to personally thank you for your tremendous 60 years. It’s amazing and thank you for your service,” Dill said.
William Merola Jr., a lifelong city resident, was honored for serving 50 years. Merola, who still responds to calls, has served as chief, assistant chief, captain and lieutenant.
Lifelong city resident Ronald Bird Jr., who has served as lieutenant, was honored for serving 35 years.
Company No. 1 Chief Michael Sweeney, a longtime resident of Somers Point, has served as lieutenant, captain, assistant chief, deputy chief and chief in his 30 years of service.
“How many kids grow up in Somers Point and become the fire chief? I can remember Mike — we go waaaay back — him growing up in this town, always wanted to be involved with the fire department. Now, 30 years later he’s done such a great job leading the fire company. I sincerely want to thank you, Mike,” Glasser said.
Michael Iannace, a city resident who has served 25 years, has been lieutenant, captain and safety officer.
City resident John Batty Jr. has served as lieutenant, captain and assistant chief in his 25 years with the company.
Honored for 10 years of service were Robert Blaine and Donald Dunleavy.
“There’s quite a list here, with people serving 60 years. Some might look at 10 years and think, big deal. That’s a big deal. If you have given 10 years to the fire department, that’s a big deal. Thank you,” Councilman Sean McGuigan said.
Topping the list for length of service with the Somers Point Fire Company Auxiliary is Barbara Cottrell, who joined to support her husband in 1962. She has served in many positions over six decades, including president.
The auxiliary has many functions that help firefighters, including responding to the scene to provide food and drinks “needed to help maintain their strength and stamina while they perform the difficult and dangerous duties of firefighting.” Members also work to raise fund for equipment and assist with community events.
Elizabeth “Beth” Bird was honored for serving 45 years with the auxiliary. Close behind was Mary Jane Bolden with 40 years.
Also honored from the auxiliary were John Batty Sr. and Jennifer Elias for 15 years of service.
By CRAIG D. SCHENCK/Sentinel staff