LOCAL HEROS
Squad officers and Board of Control members
Spring Lake First Aid Squad 1930s with original rigs. Ambulances, or “rigs,” are an important part of a first-class EMS squad. Currently, they maintain three rigs.
the patient’s dress shirt was staged, the squad seamlessly transitioned into actors, providing emergency care for the “victim.” Answering the Call(s) Today, each squad member carries a special beeper. Crew members assemble quickly at the Washington Ave building and head to the scene. However, this was not always the case. In the early days, emergency calls were signaled by a whistle at the water plant on Monmouth Avenue. Two original members, Stanley Truax and Robert Todd, often sprinted through backyards to respond. One night their shortcut didn’t go as planned. “We always took the same route, cutting through yards, and someone had put up a fence. It was about 10 at night, and we smashed into that fence. We didn’t make that call!” Call of Duty Volunteers are essential for the safety and security of our town. By joining the squad, “you are connected to your local community. You join the police, firemen and other first responders helping your neighbors on their worst day. A kind word or holding someone’s hand in the ambulance is often the best medicine,” explains Vice President Eileen McMahon. The squad also finds time to enjoy themselves at BBQ’s, holiday parties, and many local community events. No first aid experience? No problem. The squad provides on the job training. Volunteers can explore various aspects of the job and train at their own pace, making a significant impact right away. Spring Lake and Spring Lake Heights are proud of their First Aid and Emergency Squad. As we approach our centennial celebration, we eagerly welcome new members to join in our legacy of service.
“The squad fits conveniently into your life. You respond when you’re available. It also gives you tremendous satisfaction to know you’re assisting your neighbors in their time of need.” -TOM WALSH
Celebrating 96 Years! Spring Lake First Aid and Emergency Squad
High school and college cadets often go on to acquire their EMT license
BY BRIAN GRANSTRAND
at sea in 1934 and being the second squad to arrive at the Hindenburg tragedy in 1937, where they transported German captain, Ernest Lehman to the hospital. Heroes in Action: By Sea The squad gathered at its Washington Avenue headquarters on the eve of Hurricane Sandy ready to respond. Many calls came throughout the storm’s intensity and all were answered. Most notable was a dramatic water rescue of an elderly couple. Current Captain, Howard Rockhill and President Andrea Rodgers, with the help of both Spring Lake fire departments, navigated nearly neck- high water and underwater obstacles to bring a boat to their rescue. The man was found floating on his mattress, and both were brought to safety earning the gratitude of their 22 grandchildren. And By Land The squad’s presence during the Spring Lake Five proved life-saving
for one runner who suffered cardiac arrest at the finish line. Having landed “in spitting distance” of the first aid squad and paramedics, the runner was defibrillated and within seconds popped up asking, “what just happened?!” The runner survived but his finishing time remains a mystery! Beach rescues are also part of their duties. After word spread of a missing girl likely being buried alive, a nearby group formed a circle around where she had been digging. Lifeguards, police, and first aid members joined beach goers, all furiously digging. After the little girl was spotted, a mouthful of sand was quickly removed, oxygen was provided, and she was saved. Unexpected Moments Not all calls are life-threatening. One memorable incident involved responding to a “murder” at the Warren Hotel, which turned out to be a staged event for a mystery theater. Once it was realized the red stain on
At the core of Spring Lake’s legacy is a community steeped in service. From its earliest days, the success of this community has been rooted in the dedication of its people. This enduring spirit is evident in so many of our organizations, especially the Spring Lake First Aid and Emergency Squad. A History Founded in 1928, the First Aid and Emergency Squad is celebrating its 96th anniversary. Serving Spring Lake and Spring Lake Heights, the squad responds to over 1,000 calls annually, which represents over 2,000 volunteer hours. Today, it is one of the nation’s oldest running First Aid Squads. Remarkable Early Achievements The early days of the squad saw calls ranging from a cut toe to finding missing persons and, even once, assisting in a search for an escaped prisoner! Notable events include providing a field hospital after the Morro Castle’s devastating fire
“Being able to help residents and visitors of SL and SLH has brought me comfort knowing that I was able to make an awful situation better. I joined the squad in 1982 and have never regretted my decision. It’s awesome to be able to help someone in their time of need.” -MARGIE BRAHN
Early on, members wore aprons from the 3rd Ave butcher shop donated by Ellis “Piggy” Height’s father, an original member. Later, the squad wore white coveralls and today they often wear hoodies, both shown here.
Captain Rockhill demonstrating CPR technique at Manasquan High School
18 August 2024
Stroll Spring Lake 19
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