Local first responders from across Hopewell Valley were honored Saturday at the second annual Mayor’s Awards for First Responders, held at Woolsey Park.
The event opened with a flag salute by the Hopewell Township Police Honor Guard, followed by remarks from Mayor Courtney Peters-Manning.
Honorees included Hopewell Township Public Works Truck Driver Michael Mendez, recognized for locating two individuals in need of medical attention while on duty; Douglas Pszczolkowski of the Union Fire Company, cited for his service as an EMT, training coordinator, and treasurer; and Fire Lt. Robert Bailey of Hopewell Valley Emergency Services, honored for his leadership.
Hopewell Borough Mayor Ryan Kennedy recognized Assistant Chief William Springer and EMS Second Lieutenant Audra Tunison of the Hopewell Fire Department for their long-standing dedication. Chief Roger Demareski of the Pennington Fire Company presented a Unit Citation to the Pennington Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary.
The Valor Award was presented by Mayor Peters-Manning and Police Chief James Rosso to Hopewell Township Patrol Officers Blake DeMeter and Michael Enriquez for capturing and disarming an attempted murder suspect earlier this year.
Also in attendance were Mercer County Commissioner Sam Frisbee, Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds-Jackson, and Assemblyman Anthony Verrelli.
