2009.10.27
Photo: Sons of the American Revolution gives award to two fire/rescue workers
Two employees of Roanoke County's Fire and Rescue Department have received awards from the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR).
The Fincastle Resolutions Chapter of SAR awarded the Fire Safety Commendation Award to Public Education Specialist Brian Clingenpeel and the Emergency Medical Services Award to Paramedic/Firefighter Lieutenant Jon Blank. "These awards are part of our Chapter's efforts to recognize and reward those public servants who provide outstanding contributions to our Community;" said Dr. Reverdy Wright, Chapter President.
As Public Education Specialist, Clingenpeel has created and presented fire and life safety messages for all ages. He has delivered his informative and effective messages to daycare centers, elementary schools, senior centers, and civic groups. He uses a Fire and Severe Weather Safety Trailer to demonstrate dangers and to teach people how to protect themselves from these dangers. Clingenpeel also implements the Department's exclusive Character Academy that teaches youth 10-14 years of age about fire and life safety. The kids also learn about the six pillars of character: respect, responsibility, trustworthiness, fairness, caring and citizenship. Overall, Clingenpeel's extensive educational efforts have helped to prevent injuries and casualties
due to fire and other tragic events. '
Paramedic/Firefighter lieutenant Jon Blank has made outstanding contributions to Emergency Medical Services (EMS) by organizing and implementing the Department's EMS training over the past several years. He spearheaded the Department's on-line learning program that teaches new EMS techniques and provides information to members while also providing meaningful learning interaction with other members of the Department. The on-line training program is essential because it allows the required training to take place while keeping staff in the Fire Stations for call availability. He created study guides and practice tests to help personnel become certified at the Emergency Medical Technician-Intermediate (EMT-l) level by passing Commonwealth of Virginia tests.
"The SAR and our Fincastle Resolutions Chapter is honored to recognize and express its grateful appreciation to these two outstanding public servants for their critical work that affects all of us in the Roanoke area," said President Wright.
The Sons of the American Revolution was organized in 1889 as a historical, educational, and patriotic organization to perpetuate the ideals of the war for American independence. It seeks to maintain and expand the meaning of patriotism, respect for our National symbols, and the values of American citizenship. Its work is carried out through State Societies such as the Virginia Society, SAR, and local chapters such as the Fincastle Resolutions Chapter.
Submitted by Jennifer Conley Sexton.
