On Saturday December 11, 2021, the Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department held their annual awards and installation dinner at the Ocean Pines Yacht Club. During the event several members were recognized for their outstanding efforts throughout the year and new line officers and administrative officers were sworn in with help from Worcester County Senior Deputy Chief Fire Marshal, Rob Korb. Special thanks to Maryland State Delegates, Wayne Hartman & Mary Beth Carozza, Worcester County Commissioner, Chip Bertino as well as OPA Board President, Larry Perrone and the other members of the board who were able to attend.
This year's event was held in memory of two life members who unfortunately passed away earlier this year: John Henglein & former Chief, Tom Meadows.
2021 Award Recipients & Acknowledgements
President's Award- Mike Allen
Fundraising Appreciation Award- Mike Allen
Chief's Award- Joe Enste
Employee of the Year- David Collins
Career FF/Paramedic Joe Daw was also recognized for graduating Summa Cum Laude with his Bachelor of Science in Fire Science.
Service awards
5 Years of Service
Ryan Bozman
Justin Cassell
Chris Rathel
10 Years of Service
Melissa Bragg
Jamie Englishmen
Top Responders (total calls for 2021)
Steve Ready, 291
Joe Enste, 265
Steve Grunewald, 257
Mike Mather, 229
Joey Widgeon, 206
Joe Sturgill, 203
David Van Gasbeck, 182
Bill Birkner, 171
Bob Gilbert, 161
Ron Thorwart, 136
Line Officers
Steve Grunewald, Chief
Joey Widgeon, Assistant Chief
Joe Sturgill, 2nd Assistant Chief
Harvey Booth, EMS Captain
Mike Mather, Fire Captain
Andy Larken, Fire Police Captain
Joe Enste, Fire Lieutenant
David Collins, EMS Lieutenant
Trey Heiser, EMS Lieutenant
Bobby Wells, EMS Lieutenant
Steve Ready, Fire Police Lieutenant
David Van Gasbeck, Fire Police Lieutenant
Administrative Officers
David Van Gasbeck, President
Joe Enste, Board of Director
Mike Mather, Board of Director
Steve Ready, Board of Director
Photo Credit: Samantha Widgeon
