On Wednesday evening January 18th, East Brandywine Fire Company volunteers held their annual Line Officer Installation and Company Recognition Ceremony.

The evening was a huge success with nearly 130 people in attendance. According to Berwyn Fire Company Assistant Chief Matt Valocchi who was in attendance "this was an amazing event, far better than I could have imagined". Goshen Fire Company Deputy Chief and Vice President of the Chester County Chiefs Association Gerry DiNunzio stated "I have one word for this event, impressive".

Chief Edwards’s opened the evening by welcoming guests some of who included County and Township representatives as well as business and community leaders. Additionally Chief Edwards acknowledged all of the families who were in attendance. The Chief stated that without their love and unwavering support we would not be able to care for others.

Chief Edwards then went on to highlight all of the accomplishments the Company experienced in 2016.

Following the overview, Chester County Director of Emergency Services Robert “Bobby” Kagel addressed the audience. Director Kagel praised the Organization for their work in the area of retention and recruitment and municipal government relations.

After Director Kagel spoke, Assistant Chief of Operations for Alexandria Virginia Fire Department Larry Schultz addressed the audience. Chief Schultz has had a long fire service career spanning 36 years and had formerly been the Deputy Chief of Operations for Washington DC Fire Department. Chief Schultz delivered a speech that drew instant praise from the crowd for being both sobering and inspirational.

The audience then had the opportunity to view the 2016-year in review video that was produced by FF/EMT Nick Proko, and Assistant Chief Engineer John Needles. The video brought tears to the eyes of many family members who were in the room.

Following the video the 2017 Line Officer Staff was announced to the audience.

FIRE Division

Chief - John Edwards
Chief's Aide - Kevin Shaffer
Chief Emeritus - Jim Witmer
Deputy Chief - Joe Edwards
Assistant Chief - Vince D'Amico
Captain - Joe Monestere
Lieutenant – Tyler Smith
Lieutenant - PJ Groff
Chief Engineer - Bob Zynn
Assistant Chief Engineer - John Needles
Training Officer - Chris Keen
Safety Officer - Bruce Anderson
Sparky - Jake Herring

EMS Division

Medical Director - Dr. Craig Herring
EMS Director - Cathie Rawlings
EMS Captain – Greg Kohlmaier
EMS Lieutenant – Dave Quigley

At the conclusion of the ceremony the volunteers surprised Chief Edwards with a very special presentation recognizing his work in the area of achieving sustainable funding.

The Officers and Members would like to thank all those who attended this special evening. Additionally the Officers and Members of East Brandywine would like to thank the Longwood Fire Company for providing standby coverage for the evening.