The members of the Wagontown Fire Company took a much deserved evening off this past Saturday evening to gather in Volunteer Hall to celebrate individual and company accomplishments in 2013. The fire company members were joined by elected officials from the two townships, West Caln and West Brandywine, we cover in our first due response area. Also in attendance were representatives from our neighboring Fire Companies who provide us with mutual aid assistance when large incidents occur, along with representatives from the Department of Emergency Services.

The evening started out with a welcome to all our members, their families and guests from the Master of Ceremonies Trustee/Battalion Chief "Chipper" Patton. Immediately following a wonderful dinner was served by our friends at Traditions Catering. When dinner was complete the awards portion of the evening began. Past President Dunlap was called upon to present the "Member of the Year" award for 2013. The 2013 Member of the Year was awarded to David Ivey Sr. Dave is a very valued member of the Wagontown Fire Company on both the Active as well as the Corporate/Executive side of the operation, serving as an Engineer and Trustee. In 2013, Dave and his family endured many obsti ranging from sick/losing family members to a serious illness to Dave himself. All the while Dave's dedication to the Wagontown Fire Company and to his duties never suffered as he fought his way though those issues. Called upon next was Fire Chief Ziegler who presented the 2013 Firefighter of the Year Award. Chief Ziegler explained to the crowd how 2013 was particularly hard on the Wagontown members not only for the normal day-to-day functions of responding to emergencies, constant training, fundraising activities/events, but because on three separate occasions we unexpectedly lost valued members of our Wagontown operation. Chief Ziegler then called FF Tim Brown to the join him at the front podium. Tim is the brother to long time, valued member Chris Brown who we lost suddenly and unexpectedly in 2013 due to illness. FF Chris Brown served the fire company in many capacities over the course of his time there and his contributions to our accomplishments and success shows throughout. Chief Ziegler presented Tim with a plaque in the name of FF Chris Brown as the Wagontown Fire Company Firefighter of the Year for 2013. Next on the agenda, Chief Ziegler awarded the Jr Firefighter of the Year Award to Jr. Member John Rosenberry. Jr. FF Rosenberry was chosen for the award for his contribution and willingness to learn and assist our operation in anyway he can. Past President Dunlap was again called upon to present an "In Memory" plaque to the wife of Past Company Treasurer Richard Markoski. Treaurer Markoski was another valued member the company taken from us suddenly and unexpectedly in 2013. Rich served the company as an active fire police officer as well as being a fixture at all fire company fundraising events. Past President Dunlap thanked Mrs. Markoski for her husbands contributions over the years to the Wagontown Fire Company.

At this time Chief Ziegler presented numerous other awards. Other awards included Unit Citations to the neighboring fire companies as well as the two Township Board of Supervisors in attendance for their assistance during this past winters snow/ice emergencies which crippled our first run area several times in February/March of this year. With their assistance and support the fire company was able to function optimally. Additionally, some incident specific recognition were made for responses to auto accidents which required the use of Hurst Rescue Equipment to free trapped drivers. Three incidents were recognized and Green Cross Awards from the Hurst Rescue Tool company was awarded to those members involved.

To end the evening, current Fire Company President Michael Reber was called to the podium to recognize some key Wagontown members who work unselfishly behind the scenes. Recognized were Dawn Fitzgerald (Bingo Operation Manager), Bridget Ziegler (Banquet Hall Manager), and Nancy Repetto (Swim Club Manager). These three functions of our operation are vital to our financial future and often go unrecognized.

Finally, the last award was presented by President Reber to Past President Gary Dunlap. Past President Dunlap was presented a plaque consisting of a brass presidents gavel and an inscribed plate that thanked him for dedication and hard work as Fire Company President for 5 years, 2009-2013.

At this point the evening was turned over to DJ Earl Taylor. Members relaxed, socialized, and danced.

The Wagontown Fire Company would like to thank the Thorndale Fire Company (Rescue Engine 38) and the Christiana Fire Company (Tanker 52-1) for providing fire protection for our residents while our members enjoyed a much deserved break for the evening.