By Michael Roknick
The Herald
HERMITAGE, Pa. – Lunch was on the Shenango Valley Chamber of Commerce Wednesday for McGonigle Ambulance Service employees under a new monthly awards program.
“We thank you that in our most horrifying moments, those moments where lives are at stake, where we are our most vulnerable, you are the ones that respond,’’ Jim Bombeck, the chamber’s director, told McGonigle Ambulance employees.
This was the first luncheon under the chamber’s High 5 to Heroes awards program to honor first responders. The event was held at the Hermitage ambulance company.
“I’m here to tell all of you in this building you are our heroes,’’ Bombeck said. “You provide excellent care and you do it with compassion and sometimes in dangerous situations.
Sponsors donate money, food and other items for the program.
On this day, one of the sponsors was Haitian Sensation. The Sharon restaurant and coffee shop created cookies bearing the ambulance company’s name and rescue symbols.
“It’s an honor to get the community’s acknowledgement,’’ said Dakota Downing, a paramedic for McGonigle Ambulance.
Also on hand was Tim McGonigle, one of the ambulance company’s co-owners who also is a Mercer County commissioner. In the 80s he took an EMT course and is now taking a newer version.
It’s been a humbling experience, McGonigle said.
“What we learned back in the 80s has changed dramatically,’’ he said.
Bill Finley, Mercer County commissioner, was present. He also serves as the chief for the East End Fire Department in Mercer.
“I think of you as a colleague,’’ Finley said in addressing McGonigle Ambulance employees. “We don’t do it for the thanks. But when we do get them it means a lot.’’
Ann Coleman, also a Mercer County commissioner, told the group they are a lifeline.
“When people call 911 you show up,’’ Coleman said.
Additional sponsors for the awards program are being sought.
“It’s a tremendous honor for us,’’ said Patrick Murphy, McGonigle Ambulance’s executive director who also is an EMT.
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