News

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 22, 2025

Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department Hosts Annual Awards Dinner

Ocean Pines, MD – The Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department (OPVFD) celebrated its Annual Awards Dinner with an outstanding turnout, marking one of the best-attended events in recent history. The evening honored the dedication and service of OPVFD members, recognizing their hard work and commitment to the community.

The OPVFD was also honored to welcome several distinguished guests who joined in celebrating the department’s achievements:

• Chip Bertino, Worcester County Commissioner
• Mary Beth Carozza, State Senator
• Wayne Hartman, State Delegate 
• Tim Robinson, Ocean Pines Police Chief
• Matt Crisafulli, Worcester County Sheriff
• Hunter Mauk, Worcester County Deputy Fire Marshal
• John Viola, General Manager of the Ocean Pines Association
• The Ocean Pines Association Board of Directors: President Stuart Lakernick, Vice President Rick Farr, Steve Jacobs, John Latham, Elaine Brady, Monica Rakowski, and Jeff Heavner
• Jarrett Widgeon, Showell Fire Chief
• David Smarte, Showell Fire Department President

"It was truly special to see our members, both Volunteer and Career, come together to celebrate one another," said Chief Joey Widgeon. "This department thrives because of the dedication of each and every member. Whether volunteer or career, we are stronger together."

2024 Service and Achievement Awards:

• Years of Service Awards:

  • 5 Years: Bailey Littleton, Scott Wheatley
  • 10 Years: Trey Heiser, Andy Larkin, David Van Gasbeck, Joey Widgeon

• Top Responders (100+ Calls):

  • Steve Grisbach (117), Frank Spallino (117), Don Clemens (122), Ralph Decker (123), Chris Rathel (139), Rob Eicher (150), Steve Grunewald (153), Ron Thorwart (155), Steve Giannini (162), Bob Gilbert (163), David Van Gasbeck (172), Joey Widgeon (184), Joe Enste (239), Bill Birckner (247), Steve Ready (289)

• Top Cadet Responder: Tyler Englishmen (122 Calls)

• Administrative Fundraiser Appreciation (150+ Hours):

  • Corrie Eby (158 Hours), Joe Wilkinson (164 Hours), Mike Birckner (204.5 Hours)

• Employee of the Year: Bailey Littleton

• President’s Award: Rob Eicher

• Chief’s Award: Steve Giannini

The evening also introduced the 2025 Line and Administrative Officers who will lead the department in the coming year:

• Line Officers:

  • Chief: Joey Widgeon
  • 1st Assistant Chief: Chris Rathel
  • 2nd Assistant Chief: Steve Grunewald
  • Fire Captain: Joe Enste
  • Fire Police Captain: Steve Ready
  • EMS Captain: Harvey Booth
  • Fire Lieutenants: Steve Giannini, Don Clemens
  • Fire Police Lieutenants: Bill Birkner, Dave Van Gasbeck
  • EMS Lieutenants: Trey Heiser, Glenn Shockley, Jamie Englishmen

• Administrative Officers:

  • President: Joe Enste
  • Vice President: Dave Van Gasbeck
  • Directors: Bill Birkner, Rob Eicher, Steve Ready

The OPVFD also took time to remember and honor Fred Bohn and Tim Mullin for their service and dedication to the department.

Chief Widgeon and President Enste expressed their gratitude to all members for their contributions, emphasizing the strength of the department’s teamwork and commitment to the Ocean Pines community.