The Bristol Volunteer Fire Department celebrated its 2024 Recognition Banquet with a packed room of family, friends, and local leaders, marking a night of heartfelt thanks and milestones in service.
Safety Officer John Bolonda received the Chief’s Award and was recognized for an extraordinary 50 years of service as a firefighter with both the Manchester and Bristol departments. Senator Pam Helming and a representative from the Fire Association of the State of NY, Dan Sweet, were on hand to honor Bolonda’s half-century of dedication.
The President’s Award was presented to Mark Francese for his lifelong commitment to the department. The event also highlighted BVFD’s top responders for the year: Phil Sommer, Joe Stoltz, Bob Frost, Ed Thomas, Bill Cotter, Bill Colburn, John Bolonda, David Stoddard, and Eric Dey.
A CPR Save pin was awarded to 15 members who played a role in saving lives: Mikayla Bolonda, John Bolonda, Lauren Bolonda, Bill Clark, Bill Colburn, Bill Cotter, Mark Francese, Bob Frost, Bob Green, Amy Harter, Tom Revier, Dan Stewart, Joe Stoltz, and Andrew Sykes.
The department expressed thanks to the Cheshire Volunteer Fire Department for providing standby coverage during the event and to C & B Roasters for the evening’s meal.
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