
Firefighter Paramedic Matt Lund, receives the Maltese Cross from his wife, Chelsea.
Marco Island recently celebrated their top first responders, the Bravest and the Finest. First was a luncheon at the Island Country Club where Division Chief Don Jones was bestowed with the honor of Firefighter of the Year. Chief Murphy introduced the keynote speaker, Bryan Koon, Director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management. Bryan discussed the

Division Chief Don Jones has the honor of pinning Brad Underwood.

Fire Rescue Foundation President, Dianna Dohm, hands out Unit Citations.
New Firefighter Paramedic Matt Lund was pinned by his wife Chelsea, while Firefighter Paramedic Brad Underwood was pinned by Division Chief Don Jones. The pinning of the badge was described by Deputy Chief Chris Byrne as a tradition for anyone entering the department during the past year. “The significance of

Rep. Kathleen Passidomo and City Manager Jim Riviera at the Police Foundation luncheon.

Joe Granda congratulates Chief Murphy, recipient of his President’s Award.

Council Chair, Joe Batte swears in the Executive Board of the Fire Foundation.
“They will tell you it is their job,” said the Chief. He then presented Tom Bogan, Chris Crossan, Sergio DeLeon and Brad Underwood with Unit Citation Awards. Both Tom and Chris thanked the foundation and requested a hand for Chief Murphy, Deputy Chief Chris Byrne and

Captain Chris Crossan thanks his Chiefs and the Foundation.
The highest honor of the day, Firefighter of the Year, went to Division Chief Don Jones, previous winner of the State of Florida Paramedic of the Year award. Chief Murphy cited his many years

Al Schettino, Policeman of the Year, with Joe Granda.

Police Foundation announces a new President’s Award.
The following day, at Hideaway Beach, Joe Granda, President of the Police Foundation, started the proceedings by announcing the Officer of the Year for 2012, Officer Al Schettino. Joe described the vast qualifications of the recipient, “He has

Daughter Alexandra and wife Carol, with Officer Al Schettino.
Al accepted the award, “I want to begin by

Division Chief Don Jones, Firefighter of the Year for 2012, with his wife Elaine and Chief Mike Murphy.

The fifth anniversary celebration of the Fire Rescue Foundation held at Island Country Club. SUBMITTED PHOTOS
The Police Foundation presented the new President’s Award to Chief Mike Murphy. “This award recognizes an outstanding citizen who shows tremendous leadership skills and has the respect of his peers,” Joe noted. “I am truly

Marco Police Foundation President Joe Granda, with Officer of the Year for 2012 Al Schettino and Police Chief Don Hunter.
The featured speaker was Jose Carillo. Chief Don Hunter said he had numerous distinctions, not only in the Police Department, but military as well.

Chief Mike Murphy.

Police Chief Don Hunter.
After the presentation, it was announced, Ed Stenzel, after 42 years of service to Law Enforcement, has retired. Chief Hunter presented Ed with a plaque in appreciation of his service. Ed said he will continue to be committed

Deputy Chief Chris Byrne and Council Chair, Joe Batte.
In recognition for their service and support of the Police Foundation, Marco Brewery owners, Frank and Lynette Lacava were presented with a plaque. Five members of the Foundation were recognized for their service Kevin Donlan, Sal Soldano, Mike McNaboe, Julie Dewars and Keith Dameron. The last appreciation award went to Bill Morris, past president of the Police Foundation.
The officers and directors were then sworn into office for 2013.
Leave a Reply